Echinacea

Echinacea is a standout perennial that adds bold, long-lasting colour and strong pollinator appeal to summer gardens. With large daisy-like blooms and prominent central cones, these perennials bring texture and presence to borders from mid-summer through autumn - often flowering from June or July through October in a good season.

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At J. Parker’s, our selection includes striking varieties such as Echinacea Papallo Classic for vibrant summer tones, and the eye-catching Echinacea ‘Green Twister’ for unusual lime-green-edged petals and bold, pollinator-friendly contrast. Supplied in 9 cm pots or modules, both make excellent choices for borders, wildlife gardens or prairie-style planting.

Where to plant Echinacea

Echinacea thrives in full sun and freely draining soil, making it ideal for sunny borders, prairie-style plantings, wildlife gardens or containers. Once established, it tolerates periods of dryness - a plus in temperate, free-draining gardens. Avoid heavy or waterlogged soils; raised beds, gravel gardens or open borders suit them best.

Companion plants for Echinacea

To build a vibrant, wildlife-friendly summer display, pair Echinacea with sun-loving perennials such as Rudbeckia, Gaillardia or Coreopsis in warm shades of yellow, orange and red. For vertical contrast, add spiky textures from Salvia, Perovskia or Veronicastrum. Ornamental grasses such as Stipa or Panicum further complement Echinacea’s bold flowers in naturalistic or prairie-style plantings.

Growing Echinacea

Plant Echinacea in spring or early autumn in sunny, well-drained soil amended with compost. Water regularly until established, then rely on its drought tolerance. Deadhead spent flowers for prolonged bloom, or leave seed heads in autumn to attract birds and insects. Cut back in late autumn or early spring. Hardy and low-maintenance, Echinacea rewards with season-long colour and wildlife interest for many years.