Echinacea purpurea

All the members of the Echinacea genus are native to North America, though they are becoming more rare in the wild. The genus name Echinacea comes from the Greek word for "hedgehog," referring to the spiny seed head of the flower. Historically, this family of plants has been extensively used by Native American tribes and early settlers because of its beneficial medicinal properties. Echinacea acts as a natural antibiotic, and improves the function of the immune system; it became very popular in the medical field in the early twentieth century, particularly after the extensive researches of the German Dr. Gerhard Madaus. Echinacea purpurea seed is still widely planted as an herbal remedy, as well as being a common and well-loved addition to perennial gardens and prairie plantings.

🌈Create a fairy garden with Echinacea purpurea!✨

🌱About Echinacea purpurea

Family: Asteraceae family

Sun:Echinacea purpurea prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It thrives in locations with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Water:Echinacea purpurea is drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Temperature:Echinacea purpurea is well-suited to temperate climates. It can tolerate a range of temperatures but generally thrives in conditions between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C).

Soil Acidity and Alkalinity:PH range of 6.0 to 7.0. 

Sowing Depth:About 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep in well-prepared soil. The seeds need light to germinate, so avoid burying them too deeply. Germination typically takes 10 to 20 days.

Growth Cycle:Echinacea purpurea is a perennial herbaceous plant. It typically blooms from mid to late summer and continues into the fall. 

Companion Planting:Echinacea purpurea is known to attract pollinators, making it a beneficial companion plant in the garden. It can enhance the overall biodiversity of the garden and support the health of nearby plants. Consider planting it alongside vegetables or other flowering plants to encourage a thriving ecosystem.