
The genus name Echinacea comes from the Greek word for "hedgehog," referring to the spiny seed head of the flower. This wildflower favorite has it all - it's showy, it's native, and it is widely used as an herbal remedy.Īll the members of the Echinacea genus are native to North America, though they are becoming more rare in the wild. The classic Purple Coneflower is probably the most popular native wildflower out there, and no native prairie planting or garden is complete without it. IN-STOCK ORDERS SHIP THE NEXT BUSINESS DAY VIA THE US POST OFFICE. Rub them lightly to remove the seed, and store the Purple Coneflower seed in a cool, dry place.

As soon as the seeds easily come loose from the head, cut off the seed heads. Since songbirds such as goldfinches love to eat Purple Coneflower seeds, they should be harvested as soon as possible to avoid loss. Seed Saving: After flowering, the central cones of the flowers will develop into a spiky seed head. Harvesting: For fresh flowers, cut long stems of flowers that have just opened and place them in water immediately strip the leaves that will fall below the water. This Purple Coneflower plant attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and bees.
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After several years of growth, mature plants can be divided in late fall.
#When to plant purple coneflower full
Keep competition to a minimum in the first year of growth, since this plant cannot reach its full potential when crowded by weeds.

The area should be well-drained to avoid soggy soil, since this can cause disease. Unlike most coneflowers, Purple Coneflower does not do well in drought conditions and needs adequate moisture. Growing: Water seedlings until they become established. For spring planting, mix the seed with moist sand and store it in the refrigerator for 90 days before direct sowing keep the soil consistently moist until germination. Sowing: Direct sow in late fall, planting the Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) seeds 1/4" deep and lightly compacting the soil.
