Coneflower Meringue

The plant reaches only 15 to 18 inches high and wide, far smaller than most older Purple Coneflowers, which can get rangy and out of hand. It has far more flowering stems than these old-timers too, and sets dozens upon dozens of buds. The blooms begin as flat daisies with greenish-white petals in a wide ray. Then, as they mature, the central cone covers itself in short, fluffy petals that grow into a giant pompon! Distinctive and delightful, with tones from pale primrose to white.

The flowers are fascinating to butterflies, and make excellent cuts, their very thick, sturdy stems ensuring them a long vase life. 'Meringue' never needs staking, and the faster you cut or deadhead the first blooms, the quicker new buds will set. You can't beat that kind of flower power!

Echinacea is a native American perennial, but 'Meringue' was developed in Holland as part of an exciting new series of double-flowered varieties called the Cone-fections™. Like other Echinacea, it is resistant to most of the pests and diseases that trouble less hardy plants. Once established, 'Meringue' withstands unseasonable heat, humidity, and cold beautifully. It is very drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for those patches of hot, dry soil where few plants are happy. Best flowering will always be in full sun and well-drained, good garden soil, but it can take infertile soils and less than perfect conditions without dropping a petal. Try it in front of taller Echinacea such as 'Hope' in the border, or as a succession planting to early-blooming sun lovers. Its autumn blooms make fine companions to everything from Stonecrop to Agastache, and as the last flowers begin to pass, be sure to leave them on the plant so that their cones will dry out and become early Thanksgiving feasts for the songbirds! A useful, super-easy, beautiful plant, 'Meringue' is certain to become one of your very favorites. Order early to avoid disappointment, because this compact bloom machine is certain to sell out quickly! Zones 3-9.