General
Hardy perennial plants broadly referred to as Coneflowers.
Latin
Echinacea purpurea
Family: Asteraceae
Difficulty
Easy
Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun
Zone: 3-9
Timing
Sow indoors 8-10 weeks before planting out. Any time from mid-February to late March on the coast. Or direct sow in early spring or early fall. Germination should occur in 10-21 days.
Starting
Sow seeds shallowly at only 3mm (1/8") deep. If starting indoors, provide total darkness and a soil temperature of 21-25°C (70-75°F). Once sprouts appear, provide bright light.
Growing
Space plants at 30-38cm (12-15") apart in any average, well drained, slightly acidic soil. Water plants regularly for best results, keeping the leaves as dry as possible. Leave seed heads intact over winter to feed birds and provide shelter for beneficial insects.
