Echinacea - Decorative Medicinal Plant and Perennial

Echinacea - Decorative Medicinal Plant and Perennial

Echinacea - Coneflower - belongs to the aster family (lat. Asteraceae). This genus of ornamental flowers is also called coneflower (lat. Rudbeckia). This genus was created by reclassifying similar plant genera. Currently, the establishment of a separate Echinacea genus is being considered, which will include 9 species. Coneflower originates from the north/midwest of the United States. It grows here on light and dry slopes. It was brought to Europe in the 17th century as an ornamental plant. Now it is used as a medicinal plant. It does not grow in the wild in the Czech Republic.

Echinacea got its name from the Greek word Echinos - which means hedgehog. It has been known for its medicinal properties for over 200 years. It was among the Native American medicines. It was used to treat tooth infections and sore throats. Its popularity continues to grow.

Echinacea grows up to 140cm in height. The root of this herb can be creeping or taproot. Likewise, the rhizome can be smooth or hairy. The basal leaves are petiolate, others grow alternately from the plant's stem. The leaves decrease in size upward. The leaf blades are up to 10cm long. Echinacea blooms from May to September. The flowers are light pink to purple, white or yellow. The flowers may hang downward. They have prickly cone-shaped centers. Thanks to which they probably got their name. They resemble a prickly hedgehog.

Growing Echinacea

The most famous representative of this 9-species group is Purple Coneflower (lat. Echinacea purpurea). It is suitable for group plantings as well as a solitary plant. You can grow it as a decorative garden plant, and it will also be a suitable cut flower plant. It is decorative. It also fits well in woodland gardens. Its use is universal. It will decorate every garden. It is truly beautiful.

Seeds of Purple Coneflower are commonly available for purchase in our e-shop. Sow the purchased seeds as early as March. You can either sow them directly at the site (preferably in a cold frame), or at home by the window in seed trays. After two months from sowing, the seedlings are suitable for planting. We transplant them to the flower bed at the end of May.

Transplant Echinacea seedlings to a sunny location. The soil should be light and well-drained. To keep the soil light and airy, don't forget regular loosening around the plants.

Regular watering and fertilizing are not necessary. Add fertilizer for richer flowering. Don't forget regular watering for plants grown in pots.

Echinacea blooms in the second year after sowing. Then it becomes a perennial in your ornamental flower bed. It grows to the size and structure of a larger branched shrub.

TIP: Echinacea thrives in a sunny location. It doesn't mind drought or stony soil. Feel free to allocate a less fertile part of your flower bed for it. If you don't like the purple colour of this flower, then opt for Echinacea paradoxa with yellow flowers or Echinacea White Swan with white flowers.

You can collect and dry the leaves and flowers of Echinacea from the second year of the plant's growth. Collect the leaves at the beginning of the plant's flowering period. The root is harvested from plants older than 3-4 years.

Echinacea overwinters in the flower bed without any problems. You can cover the roots with conifer branches.

Healing Properties

Echinacea belongs among medicinal plants. Generally, its name is associated with treating sore throat and colds. Research into its healing properties is not yet complete. The root of Echinacea pallida is apparently more medicinal. It is suitable for treating flu illnesses. It contains high amounts of essential oils. The above-ground parts of Echinacea purpurea have a beneficial effect against colds. Echinacea herb contains more polysaccharides. It is also effective for urinary and respiratory tract infections.

Echinacea is processed in several different ways. Fresh juice is used to produce syrups, drops and lozenges. The dried plant is used to prepare teas and tea blends. The root is processed both fresh and dried. Together with alcohol, you can make a tincture. For home use, we most commonly process echinacea in the form of tea. Echinacea tea is also suitable for children. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor about using echinacea.

Echinacea extracts strengthen our immunity and have anti-inflammatory effects. It now ranks among very popular and widely used herbs. It will liven up your garden. Try growing it. You can also venture out and try home-made tea against colds.

Have you already treated yourself with this herb? Why not try growing it yourself?

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Author: Hana Michalíková