The Ever Evolving Echinacea

I’m going to admit something that might get me in trouble. When I started in this industry I didn't like Echinacea… aka Coneflower. It was just that color of pink that reminded me of Pepto Bismal. I know, I know, “what about it’s incredibly long flowering season” you might say or “it’s incredibly drought tolerant and we know how important that is”. Yes, yes all so true but I just could not for some reason get over my bias toward Echinacea’s color. As my southern mama would say, “It just ain’t doing it for me”, and unless a client specifically asked for it I did not use it in designs.

But when the mad plant scientists (forgive me mad plant scientist) starting taking that perennial in the most incredible genetic directions I became a lover! “Whoa”, I said one day after setting eyes on the Sombrero collection. “You have got to be kidding me”. That (pointing to the new, knock you down in color Sombrero) came from that (pointing to the OG Echinacea)? And now, the amazing Echinacea, new and improved in color, is one of my favorite perennials to use.

I have been in the industry long enough to know that you never know what new plant/s will be released for the spring season and it’s exciting. Even though Echinacea is zone 3-9, I still usually run my own test trials on new plants on my property. I have winds since I’m on a hill so I like to try 3 of the same “new” plant in different areas to see how they fare. Well, I admit, colorful varieties of Echinacea are everywhere. There are fluffy, frilly soft pinks, deep blow your mind oranges and even yellow. I honestly think the Echinacea is getting revenge for those early years! Below right to left are Giddy Pink, Sombrero, Yellow Sombrero and one of my favorites Honeydew…Oh my!