(Echinacea purpurea) Native to the North American plains, Echinacea has become a household name and the ambassador of herbal medicine for its use in stimulating the immune system. Purpurea is the easiest of the Echinacea family to grow, requiring no prior cold treatment for germination. A visually stunning perennial reaching a height of 3’, each plant produces several flower stalks topped with characteristic cone-shaped centers and drooping purple petals. Flowers are humming with all types of pollinators and the seeds are a favorite among birds (you can trust us with this bit of info!). Third-year roots are most often used for medicinal purposes. Unless started very early, blooms the second year and thereafter. Slugs LOVE the fresh green growth so keep an eye on these!
Perennial. UO

Packet: 100 seeds

[split]

Growing Info

SOWING:

Sow indoors 8-10 weeks before your last frost.

Transplant out after your last frost.

Note: Slugs ADORE the fresh green growth. Just sayin.

PLANTING DEPTH:

1/4-1/2"

SPACING:

12-18" in rows 15-18" apart.

EMERGENCE:

10-20 days @ soil temp 70F

LIGHT:

Full sun

FERTILITY:

Average. Prefers well-drained and evenly moist but is tolerant of many soil types. Drought and heat tolerant once established.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Loved by pollinators!

Harvest 3rd year and beyond roots for medicinal purposes.

While not absolutely necessary, you may provide staking or netting to keep them upright and tidy with straight stems.

Cut long stems when petals just stretching and expect a stem life of 5-7 days.

Echinacea (Purple Coneflower)