Echinaceas have been bred, crossed and pretty much turned into mums. There is no doubt that the straight species and those closest to it are the easiest and longest lived plants. This seed strain of Echinacea purpurea displays all the best traits of the species, Large deep rose reflexed petals around an orange/brown fragrant cone. Echinacea in our climate requires regular irrigation for the first two years to establish. Its critically important in the first year. Full sun and rich soil that drains with regular irrigation. Wonderful border perennial and even cut flower. Blooms late June to late August The spent flowers may be left to feed overwintering birds, the stems turn deep black and are handsome as well. I’ve had excellent luck adding a handful of all organic fertilizer (dry) to the hole before planting. This helps the plant establish faster and in time it will require much less water. To 3′ tall and forming an enlarging clump. Moderate deer resistance. Native to the plains/midwest US. Fragrant. ( We don’t grow any double Echinacea because they are worthless to pollinators.)
