Echinacea purpurea ‘Vanilla Cupcake’ (Coneflower)

Echinacea purpurea ‘Vanilla Cupcake’ is a vigorous, compact perennial boasting a profusion of white double flowers adorned with a prominent central pompom surrounded by quilled ray petals. Blooming from midsummer until frost, this mid-size coneflower has a strong upright habit with well-branched stems that do not flop. It is an eye-catching addition to perennial borders, small gardens, or patio containers. Can be used in fresh cut or dried arrangements.

• Grows up to 18-22 in. tall (45-55 cm) and 16 in. wide (40 cm).
• Thrives in full sun in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerant to 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. 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.