Wholesale Echinacea

climate
Most often grows in cultivated gardens, prairies, and meadows in full sun.

soil
Grows in rocky to sandy-clay soils, either dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought once established.

growing
The plant takes two years to flower when grown from seed, but can flower the first year if you have a particularly long growing season or plant early indoors. Sow seeds in March or April in a greenhouse and only just cover the seed with soil. The seed usually germinates in 10-21 days at 25°C. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots once they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse for the first summer. Plant them out in the late spring or early summer of the following year and give them some protection from slugs at least until they are established. Divisions can also be taken in the spring or autumn.

harvesting
The top growth should be harvested just before the flower buds open by cutting the stems just above the first or second pair of full green leaves. Echinacea roots should be harvested in the fall when the top growth has been killed by hard frost. If there are seed heads on the plants, distribute them on the ground if you want additional plants the next year. Harvest roots from well-established plants. Removing root growth from plants younger than 3-4 years may result in killing the plant.

To harvest Echinacea roots, lift the plant and tip it back using a garden fork. Use a very sharp knife and clean-cut the portions of root that you want to harvest. Be sure to leave enough roots to sustain the plant. A good rule of thumb is to harvest about 20% of root if you intend to make annual harvests. Dry the roots (cut into small pieces) and leaves.

preserving
Store dried root pieces or dried leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

When it comes to traditional North American botanicals, Echinacea stands in a class of its own. Native to the central and eastern portions of the continent, this iconic wildflower has been a staple of indigenous wellness practices for centuries.

Historically, various tribes prized Echinacea for its versatility. From the Sioux to the Comanche, it was utilized in a wide range of traditional applications, ranging from topical use to soothing infusions. This long history of use highlights the enduring reputation of this resilient herb.

Today, Echinacea is a favorite for those seeking to maintain their vitality during the changing seasons. It is widely used to complement the body's natural defenses and is a cornerstone of many wellness rituals. Whether enjoyed as a tea, tincture, or powder, it is celebrated for its ability to support a balanced and resilient constitution.

What makes this plant so unique? Echinacea is composed of a complex array of naturally occurring compounds, including polysaccharides and alkylamides, which are the subject of extensive modern research regarding their role in botanical wellness. By incorporating Echinacea into your daily routine, you are drawing on a time-honored tradition of plant-based support.

Because of its storied past and well-documented profile, Echinacea remains one of the most respected herbs available today. It is the perfect companion for your wellness cabinet, offering a natural way to honor your body’s inherent strength throughout the year.