• Packet of Purple coneflower seeds Packet de graines de coneflower pourpre
  • Bee on purple coneflower in the garden Abeille sur coneflower pourpre dans le jardin
  • Packaging dimension of purple coneflower seeds Dimension d'emballage des graines de coneflower pourpres
  • Purple coneflower close-up Violet coneflower gros plan
  • Coneflower against blue sky in the backyard Coneflower contre le ciel bleu dans la cour arrière
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JNB Seed

Purple Coneflower Seeds

Purple Coneflower Seeds

$4.50 CAD
$4.50 CAD
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The Purple Coneflower stands as a quintessential symbol among native wildflowers, indispensable in any native prairie setup or garden landscape. Its appeal is multifaceted: it is visually striking, indigenous, and has a longstanding reputation for its herbal benefits.

Belonging to the Echinacea genus, these plants are indigenous to North America, though their presence in natural habitats has been dwindling. The name "Echinacea" is derived from the Greek word for "hedgehog," an homage to the flower's distinctive spiny center. Throughout history, this plant group has been cherished and utilized by Native American tribes and pioneering settlers alike for its myriad health benefits. Recognized for its capacity to act as a natural antibiotic and bolster the immune system, Echinacea has garnered attention and acclaim in the realm of medicinal botany. Its popularity surged in the medical community during the early 20th century, especially following the comprehensive studies by German scientist Dr. Gerhard Madaus.

Today, Echinacea purpurea seeds are sown not only for their therapeutic advantages but also as a favored element in perennial borders and prairie landscapes. Their enduring appeal lies in their dual role as a decorative and functional plant. The cultivation of these seeds perpetuates the tradition of utilizing native plants for both their beauty and health-promoting properties.

In modern herbal medicine, Echinacea continues to be a prominent plant, valued for its contribution to enhancing immune function and fighting infections. Its role in contemporary gardens and natural medicine cabinets alike underscores a continued appreciation for plants that combine aesthetic appeal with practical health applications. As we advance, the cultivation and use of Echinacea purpurea and its relatives remind us of the enduring connection between nature's bounty and human well-being.

How To Grow

Planting: For direct seeding of Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) in late autumn, bury the seeds 1 cm deep and firm the soil gently. If opting for a spring sowing, combine the seeds with damp sand and refrigerate for 90 days to simulate winter conditions; ensure the soil remains moist to facilitate germination. Space or relocate the young plants as they grow.

Cultivation: Water the young plants regularly until they are well-established. Purple Coneflower, unlike its relatives, requires consistent moisture and does not thrive in dry conditions. Ensure the site offers good drainage to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to disease. Minimize weed competition during the plant's first year to allow for optimal growth. Mature plants may be divided in late autumn after several years to encourage continued vigor. The Purple Coneflower is known to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees with its vibrant blooms.

Harvesting

To enjoy the freshest flowers, cut the stems of newly opened blossoms and immerse them in water immediately, removing any leaves that would be submerged.

Seed Saving

Once the bloom period ends, the flower's central cones will transform into spiky seed heads, attracting birds like goldfinches. Harvest the seeds promptly to prevent loss by cutting the heads when the seeds detach easily. Gently rub the heads to release the seeds, then store them in a cool, dry location for future planting.

Extra Facts

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

Sunlight: Full Sun, Part Sun

Height: 102 cm

Color: Pink, Purple

Bloom Season: Blooms Early Summer, Blooms Late Summer

Uses: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Honeybees, Attracts Butterflies, Hummingbirds, Cut Flowers, Deer Resistant

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