Echinacea for Every Garden

January 27, 2025 Mary Choate

Echinacea is an easy-to-grow native plant that’s perfect for water-wise gardens. Both Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) and Echinacea angustifolia are celebrated for their beauty and traditional medicinal uses.

Echinacea Benefits: A Thousand-Year-Old Remedy

Echinacea has been treasured for centuries by Indigenous peoples across North America for its healing properties. European settlers later adopted its use, and it became a leading natural remedy before the rise of antibiotics.

Modern Science Meets Tradition

Studies show that Echinacea can help boost the immune system and reduce cold symptoms. The plant contains complex compounds that stimulate immune response, and both flowers and roots can be used for teas, tinctures, and herbal remedies.

Grow Your Own Echinacea

Echinacea thrives in USDA zones 2-10 and is an excellent choice for drought-resistant landscapes. The vibrant flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies while also providing food for seed-eating birds.

How to Plant Echinacea

Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Direct Seeding: Sow seeds in fall or early spring, rake them into the soil, and water lightly.
Spacing: When seedlings reach an inch tall, thin them to 20 inches apart.

Shop Organic Echinacea Angustifolia

Attract Pollinators and Beneficial Wildlife

Echinacea not only adds beauty to your garden but also supports pollinators and birds, creating a thriving ecosystem.

Harvesting and Using Echinacea

Cut Flowers: Enjoy fresh or dried Echinacea blooms in floral arrangements.
Teas and Tinctures: Use dried flowers and leaves to make immune-boosting teas.
Seed Saving: Allow flowers to mature and collect seeds for future planting.

Echinacea Care Tips

Watering: While drought-tolerant, occasional watering helps plants establish strong roots.
Pruning: Deadhead blooms to encourage continuous flowering.
Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.