Echinacea laevigata (Smooth Coneflower)
$10.00
Out of stock
Size: 3-4’ tall / 1-1.5’ wide
Sun: Full Sun to Part Shade
Soil: Medium-Dry, Neutral-Alkaline, Well-Drained
Bloom Time: Summer
Deer Resistance: 3/5
Ecotype: Unknown
Echinacea has become one of the poster children for the native plant movement, but most are native further west. There is only one species of Echinacea truly native to Virginia-- Echinacea laevigata, and due to development, agriculture, and fire suppression (and subsequent forest succession), this plant is considered "threatened" by the state.
The petals of Echinacea laevigata are more slender, more delicate, and paler than the more common Echinacea purpurea. It prefers medium to dry soils and can easily be incorporated into most garden settings, so long as the soil is well-drained. While preferring full sun, it is also adaptable to part sun and even part shade. Echinacea will readily cross-pollinate with others in the genus, so it is recommended not to plant Echinacea laevigata alongside other Echinacea species.
The flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees and butterflies. The seedheads persist throughout the winter, and the seeds are enjoyed by birds-- especially goldfinches.
These plants were grown from seeds that were purchased from a seed vendor who cultivates these in her garden. Seeds for this species are not (and should not) be wild harvested due to its threatened status.