Echinacea purpurea ‘Meringue’ (Coneflower)

Echinacea purpurea ‘Meringue’ (Coneflower) is a compact perennial boasting a profusion of double flowers with downward arching white ray petals surrounding a creamy yellow pom-pom center. Blooming from midsummer until early fall, this dwarf coneflower has a strong upright habit with well branched stems that do not flop. Perfect for patio containers, small gardens and perennial borders where Meringue will light up the evening with its glowing white petals.

• Grows up to 12-15 in. tall (30-37 cm) and 18-20 in. wide (45-50 cm). 
• Thrives in full sun in average, dry to medium moisture, well drained soils. Tolerant of drought, heat and humidity.
• Perfect choice for beds and borders, prairies and meadows, wildflower gardens or cottage gardens. Excellent as cut flowers. 
• No serious pest or disease issues. The double flowers may not be as attractive to butterflies and birds as single flowers. Deer resistant.
• Remove spent flowers and cut back the stems to encourage further blooms. Deadheading will help them grow and thrive.
• Propagate by division in spring or fall or by root cuttings from late fall to early winter.

Echinacea, commonly called Coneflower, has been cultivated as a hardy and showy perennial since the 1700s, both in North America and Europe. Truly an American plant, native to the central and eastern part of the country, it was used by the early Native Americans to cure wounds and infections. A great prairie flower, its bright and large blossoms made a successful transition to the backyard. Traditionally purple, with ray flowers that droop downward off the central cone, Coneflowers today enjoy a rich variety of colors and flower shapes with ray florets held horizontal, single or even doubled, giving them the look of Chrysanthemum. Easily grown from seed, they thrive on neglect.