Echinacea pallida (Pale purple conefloer) 9 cm Pot

Growth habit & appearance: Echinacea pallida is a striking perennial recognised for its slender, upright stems and distinctive flowers with long, narrow petals that sweep dramatically downward from a dark, raised cone. The petals range from soft lilac to pale rose, giving the plant a delicate, refined look compared to broader-petalled coneflower species. Its deep taproot anchors it firmly and contributes to its well-known medicinal heritage. The plant’s airy structure and tall stature create a graceful vertical effect in the summer border.

Growing conditions: A hardy perennial native to the American prairie, Echinacea pallida thrives in full sun and sharply drained soil. It prefers lean, sandy, or gritty conditions and is particularly well suited to Irish gardens where drainage can be improved with gravel or raised beds. Avoid heavy winter wet around the crown. Once established, it is drought tolerant, wind-resistant, and reliably hardy through Irish winters, flowering well even in cooler summers.

Traditional & herbal uses: Historically, Echinacea pallida has been linked with immune stimulation and was often referenced for colds, influenza, and inflammatory complaints. Both root and flower have been noted in older herbal material.

Maintenance & harvesting: Keep the area weed-free in early growth stages so the crown can expand. Deadhead early blooms to extend flowering, or allow seed heads to mature for wildlife value. Cut back spent stems in late autumn or leave them standing for winter structure. Flowers may be harvested during full bloom, while the root is typically lifted from mature plants once well established. Ensure good drainage throughout the year to keep the plant vigorous.