Latin Name: Echinacea Purpurea
Alternative Names: Coneflower
Main Uses: Ornamental, medicinal, naturescape

Zone Hardiness: Zone 3 perennial
Exposure: Full sun
Height: 90 - 120 cm (36 - 48 inches)
Flower Colour: Pink-purple 
Flowering Time: July to August

Seed Source: Organically grown

Germination: 7 - 10 days at 21ºC.
Indoors: 3 - 5 seeds per plug, 8 - 12 weeks before the average last frost date
Planting out: Plant in loose, fertile soil once all chance of frost has passed.
Direct Seeding: Echinacea can be direct-seeded in late May, but will not bloom until its second year. Another option is to sow outdoors (into prepared beds) in late fall, which will yield strong, first-year blooming plants the next summer. 
Planting depth: 1/4 "
Spacing: Space transplants 12" apart

Growing in Containers: Grows very well in larger containers and raised beds, although winter hardiness may be impacted.

Growing in Mixed Planters: Not well suited to mixed planters.

Fertilizing (Containers): Plant in a quality, well-draining organic-based potting mix. Feed regularly with organic fertilizer. An organic bloom-booster fertilizer at the first onset of buds will encourage larger blooms and more abundant flowering.

Watering (Containers): Water containers deeply when the top inch feels dry to the touch. Monitor pots every day or two during very hot weather.

Fertilizing (Garden): Plant in average garden soil, amended with compost on an annual basis. No additional fertilizing is required.  

Watering (Garden): Water deeply to establish. Water mature plants weekly during hot weather.

Beneficials Attracted to this Plant: Many butterflies, as well as bees, feed on the nectar of echinacea.

Notes: Deadhead flowers to promote tidy re-blooming. 

Suitability for Indoors: Not suited for indoors.