Echinacea is a type of coneflower native to eastern and central North American forests and grasslands. It has a distinctive spiked center with drooping petals and gets it’s common name from Greek word “ekhinos” for sea urchin. This perennial doesn’t need much water and prefers airy dry soil and can take partial shade making it a good candidate for our northwest gardens. They are often covered in bees when in bloom and produce ample nectar. Where Echinacea is grown commercially a flavorful medium colored honey can be produced.
