Echinacea
Echinacea: Sowing, planting and harvest calendar
Echinacea is a group of herbaceous perennials appreciated for their bold, daisy-like flower heads. They belong to the Asteraceae family and originate in North America. Echinacea purpurea is a familiar garden species, alongside numerous cultivars and hybrids. Their different colours and shapes make the group more varied than a single purple flower might suggest. A named variety can differ noticeably from the wild species in height, flower form and overall appearance.The plant forms a leafy clump with upright stems that carry the flower heads above the foliage. Green leaves provide a substantial base, and those of Echinacea purpurea often feel rough to the touch. Size varies: compact selections suit smaller spaces, while taller forms can exceed a metre. The foliage is deciduous, so the green clump does not keep the same appearance through winter. Dry stems and seed heads can remain visible after the leaves decline.Each apparent flower is actually…
