PS - I know I have a huge whitefly issue as you can see on a stem. My garden is overrun with whiteflies this year...yes, it's unsightly!

Looks like eriophyid mites. Is this the only flower showing issues?

http://bygl.osu.edu/content/distorted-coneflowers-0

Thank you never & mao - I've never heard of eriophyid mites. It's only on one coneflower plant (so far!). Your link suggests that I cut off affected rosettes since that's where the mites are. In the fall, I'll cut the plant to the ground.

Here is a link that might be useful: another link

more info on eriophyid mites from never

Here is a link that might be useful: more wisdom from never

Sometimes I only learn about diseases or problems with plants by reading posts like this. My coneflowers are nearing 15 years old and have never had any problems. They mostly just keep on keeping on where they are. Some years, I find a volunteer.

But it is good to know of possible problems. Next year could be different.

I wish you the best with yours.