Purple Coneflower Seeds Echinacea Purpurea 250 Seeds
The beloved Purple Coneflower is likely the most well-known native wildflower, and no native prairie garden or planting feels complete without it. This cherished wildflower has everything you could want - it's vibrant, it's indigenous, and it's commonly utilized as an herbal remedy.
All species within the Echinacea genus are indigenous to North America, although they are becoming increasingly scarce in their natural habitats. The name Echinacea is derived from the Greek term for "hedgehog," which alludes to the flower's spiky seed head. Historically, this group of plants has been widely used by Native American tribes and early settlers due to its valuable medicinal qualities. Echinacea serves as a natural antibiotic and enhances immune system function; it gained significant popularity in the medical community during the early 1900s, especially following the extensive research conducted by German Dr. Gerhard Madaus. Echinacea Purpurea seeds for cultivation are still commonly sown as an herbal remedy, in addition to being a favorite and well-regarded component of perennial gardens and prairie plantings.
Common Names: Eastern Purple Coneflower
Latin Name: Echinacea purpurea
Species Origin: US Native Wildflower
Type: Native Wildflowers
Life Cycle: Perennial
USDA Zones: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northeast, Southeast
Seeds per Ounce: 7,700
Stratification: No Stratification
Germination Ease: No Stratification
Sunlight: Full Sun, Part Sun
Height: 40 Inches
Color: Pink, Purple
Bloom Season: Blooms Early Summer, Blooms Late Summer
Uses: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Honeybees, Attracts Butterflies, Hummingbirds, Cut Flowers, Deer Resistant
Sowing: In late fall, directly sow the seeds of the Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) at a depth of 1/4" and gently compact the soil. For spring planting, combine the Purple Coneflower seeds with moist sand and refrigerate for 90 days before direct sowing; ensure the soil remains consistently moist until germination occurs. Remember to thin or transplant the seedlings.
Growing: Water the seedlings until they are well established. Unlike many other coneflowers, the Purple Coneflower struggles in drought conditions and requires sufficient moisture. The planting area should be well-drained to prevent soggy soil, which can lead to disease. Minimize competition during the first year of growth, as this plant cannot thrive when overcrowded by weeds. After several years, mature plants can be divided in late fall. This Purple Coneflower is known to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
Harvesting: To enjoy fresh flowers, cut long stems of flowers that have just opened and place them in water right away; be sure to remove any leaves that will be submerged.
Seed Saving: Following flowering, the central cones of the flowers will turn into a spiky seed head. Since songbirds like goldfinches enjoy eating Purple Coneflower seeds, it's best to harvest them promptly to prevent loss. Once the seeds easily detach from the head, cut off the seed heads. Gently rub them to release the seeds, and store the Purple Coneflower seeds in a cool, dry location.
