To most people, echinacea conjures up a herbal remedy for colds and 'flu - a vital boost to the immune system or a piece of harmless quackery. For gardeners, however, Echinacea purpurea is a versatile herbaceous perennial with handsome, long-lasting flowers. It is sturdy and self-supporting, hardy, easy to grow, undemanding, suitable both for the formal border and the meadow look.
The present high standing of this North American prairie plant is partly due to its being an important element in "new naturalism" gardens. Amenable to being disposed in drifts and rivers, it is a striking sight en masse with its large daisy flowers, warm pink, purple-pink or ivory-white according to cultivar. These appear over a long period from early July to September and are followed by attractive, long-lasting seedheads.
The present high standing of this North American prairie plant is partly due to its being an important element in "new naturalism" gardens. Amenable to being disposed in drifts and rivers, it is a striking sight en masse with its large daisy flowers, warm pink, purple-pink or ivory-white according to cultivar. These appear over a long period from early July to September and are followed by attractive, long-lasting seedheads.
Growing tips
To grow well echinaceas definitely like a meaty soil that drains sufficiently sharply so that it never becomes waterlogged in winter. They are also best in full sun, although they will tolerate some shade. It is important to mix a good quantity of compost with the soil from the hole before planting and to keep the plant well watered until established. After that, an annual spring mulch is all they need.
Dead-heading will encourage the formation of more flower buds; alternatively, the seedheads can be left for winter decoration. You will have to accept that echinaceas sometimes die for no very obvious reason, although winter wet is a possibility.
The coarse foliage seems to shrug off pest and disease attack.
Propagation
Sow seed in early spring (Chiltern Seeds has a good selection on offer). The plants will often flower in their first season. It is also possible to divide plants or to take root cuttings in spring.
To grow well echinaceas definitely like a meaty soil that drains sufficiently sharply so that it never becomes waterlogged in winter. They are also best in full sun, although they will tolerate some shade. It is important to mix a good quantity of compost with the soil from the hole before planting and to keep the plant well watered until established. After that, an annual spring mulch is all they need.
Dead-heading will encourage the formation of more flower buds; alternatively, the seedheads can be left for winter decoration. You will have to accept that echinaceas sometimes die for no very obvious reason, although winter wet is a possibility.
The coarse foliage seems to shrug off pest and disease attack.
Propagation
Sow seed in early spring (Chiltern Seeds has a good selection on offer). The plants will often flower in their first season. It is also possible to divide plants or to take root cuttings in spring.
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