ECHINACEA PARADOXA SEEDS

Echinacea paradoxa var. paradoxa

ORGANIC

Once rare and unique to isolated stands in the Ozark Mountains of Missouri and Arkansas, this lovely Echinacea is becoming a popular alternative to Rudbeckia and Ratibida species in perennial gardens and meadow landscapes. The “paradox" is that the petals of this species are shades of yellow, unlike every other member of the genus, collectively known as “purple coneflowers". Blooms May through July in most gardens east of the Rocky Mountains. Petals are delicate and reflexed like those of E. pallida. Reliably perennial and adaptable to most garden soils and tolerant of drought once established. Hardy to at least zone 5.

These seeds germinate best with stratification: tuck seeds just below the surface of moist soil, pressing to keep seed snug. Mist generously and cover with plastic to maintain moisture. Place in the refrigerator or outdoors in a sheltered location (an unheated barn or screened porch, out of direct sunlight) in winter for 4-6 weeks before returning to cool room temperature in bright light. Seeds in pots placed outdoors may be left there to germinate in the spring, but take care to keep the soil moist. Either way, prick out germinated seedlings to grow on in individual 3" pots in bright light. Harden off well-rooted plants before transplanting into full sun in spring or autumn. Slower to grow than the other Echinaceas we offer, but eventually tops out around 3'. Spreads to form attractive clumps and self-sows politely where it is happy.

Like E. purpurea and E. pallida, this species was very probably used by indigenous peoples of the Ozarks for medicinal purposes, although we highly recommend the aforementioned species for contemporary herbalists.

Packet contains at least 20 seeds.