Echinacea angustifolia (Echinacea angustifolia) 9 cm Pot

Growth habit & appearance: Echinacea angustifolia forms a tidy clump of narrow, slightly rough textured leaves arranged around sturdy upright stems. In summer it produces classic coneflower blooms: rose-pink to soft purple petals that reflex gently away from a prominent, coppery central cone. Compared with the broader-leaved species, this form is shorter, denser, and more robust in appearance, reflecting its prairie origins. Beneath the surface it develops thick, fibrous roots that have been central to its long-standing medicinal heritage.

Growing conditions: A hardy perennial native to the dry grasslands of the Americas, Echinacea angustifolia adapts well to the Irish climate provided it receives full sun and free-draining soil. It performs strongly in lean, gritty, or sandy beds and dislikes prolonged winter wet. Raised beds or gravel amendments help prevent crown rot in wetter counties. Once established, it is drought tolerant and forms a long-lived clump capable of withstanding wind, cool summers, and variable rainfall.

Traditional & herbal uses: Traditionally, this species has been associated with immune tonics, respiratory tract infections, sinus issues, and candida-related complaints. Its historical use centres on the root, which has been widely referenced in North American herbal tradition.

Maintenance & harvesting: Keep the planting area weed-free in the first year while the crown establishes. Deadhead early flowers to extend the blooming period, or allow heads to ripen for seed and winter interest. Cut back spent stems in late autumn or leave them for birds and winter structure. Roots are typically harvested from plants three years or older; lift carefully to avoid damaging the central crown. Aerial parts can be collected when the plant is in full flower. Avoid over-watering and ensure strong drainage to maintain root health.