Organically grown at KoruKai Herb Farm, New Zealand, without the use of synthetic fertilisers, pesticides, or herbicides.
Echinacea is one of the most widely used medicinal herbs in Western herbal medicine and a beautiful addition to any garden. Native to the prairies of North America, this hardy perennial produces stunning purple daisy-like flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects throughout summer. While the flowers are highly ornamental, it is the roots that are most prized by herbalists. Echinacea is a long-lived perennial that becomes increasingly productive each year and is well worth growing as part of a home herbal apothecary.
Highly photogenic herb, a truly stunning flower in the middle of summer. Plant echinacea where you can see it!
Image above: Echinacea purpurea grown amongst other herbs at KoruKai Herb Farm, Banks Peninsula
Medicinal Uses*
Echinacea is traditionally regarded as one of the most effective herbs for supporting a healthy immune system. It has been used for centuries by the Indigenous peoples of North America and remains one of the most extensively researched medicinal herbs today. Traditionally, echinacea has been used to support healthy immune function and to assist the body's natural response to seasonal colds and influenza. It has also been valued for supporting recovery from viral and bacterial infections, soothing sore throats and upper respiratory discomfort, promoting healthy lymphatic function, and supporting wound healing and healthy skin.
Many herbalists recommend echinacea at the first signs of illness to help stimulate the body's natural immune response and support recovery.
Growing Conditions
Echinacea is a remarkably hardy and easy-to-grow perennial that performs exceptionally well throughout New Zealand. It thrives in full sun with well-drained, fertile loamy soil and compost-rich garden beds. It needs moderate but consistent moisture. Although established plants tolerate extended dry periods, they produce far more vigorous growth and larger roots when watered during prolonged summer dry spells.
At KoruKai Herb Farm on Banks Peninsula we have successfully grown echinacea for many years. It handles our frosty winters and dry Canterbury summers with ease.
Because the roots are the primary medicinal part, good soil preparation is worthwhile. Annual applications of compost and organic mulch help maintain vigorous growth and maximise future root harvests.
Planting Instructions
Your order contains a healthy dormant crown. Upon arrival unpack immediately and plant into a pot using quality potting mix enriched with compost. Position the crown so the growing buds sit just above the soil surface. Water thoroughly and keep in a sheltered position for the first few weeks.
When ready to transplant, prepare the garden with generous amounts of compost and well-rotted manure and plant into its permanent position during spring (September–October). Space plants approximately 45 cm apart and mulch around the crown to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Water regularly during the first growing season, particularly through hot, dry weather.
Once established, echinacea is a low-maintenance perennial that will return reliably each spring.
Harvesting
Although the leaves and flowers can also be used, the roots contain the highest concentration of the constituents traditionally valued in herbal medicine. Allow plants to establish for 2–3 years before harvesting the roots as the plant are very slow to grow and mature.
Harvest in autumn after the foliage has naturally died back. Carefully loosen the soil around the plant with a garden fork and gently lift the entire root ball. Shake off excess soil, trim away any dead foliage, and harvest a portion of the roots while leaving enough of the crown and healthy roots intact for the plant to regrow. Well-established crowns can remain productive for many years when harvested carefully.
Processing and Drying
Older crowns often develop a dense network of roots that traps soil in the centre. Quartering the crown before washing makes cleaning much easier. Wash the roots thoroughly and cut any larger roots into smaller pieces to speed up drying.
Dry the roots with good airflow at 32–43°C, out of direct sunlight, until they are completely dry. Depending on humidity, this usually takes 3–7 days. Properly dried roots should snap cleanly rather than bend. Store whole dried roots in paper bags or airtight glass jars in a cool, dry place for up to two years, or prepare them as a tincture for longer storage. For maximum freshness and potency, grind the roots into powder only when needed.
Herbal Preparations*
Echinacea is traditionally prepared as tinctures, decoctions, herbal teas, capsules, mouthwashes, gargles, and throat sprays. It has long been used by herbalists as a traditional immune-support herb for both adults and children.
*This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. Always consult a qualified and registered herbalist or healthcare practitioner before using medicinal herbs.
