The Wonderful World of White Echinacea Varieties

Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is a beautiful and popular plant that belongs to the daisy family. This perennial plant is native to North America and has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples for its medicinal properties. Nowadays, echinacea is widely cultivated for ornamental purposes due to its stunning flowers and easy-to-grow nature. In this article, we'll explore the world of white echinacea varieties - their origins, characteristics, and how to care for them.

Origins of White Echinacea Varieties

White echinacea varieties are relatively new compared to their more common pink and purple counterparts. The first white echinacea was discovered in the wild in the mid-1990s by Richard Saul, a horticulturist from Pennsylvania. Saul named this variety "White Swan" and introduced it to the market in 2001. Since then, many other white echinacea varieties have been bred and are now available to gardeners worldwide.

Characteristics of White Echinacea Varieties

White echinacea varieties are prized for their pure white petals, which give them a classic and elegant look. They typically bloom in mid to late summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Some popular white echinacea varieties include:

White Swan

The original white echinacea variety discovered by Richard Saul, White Swan has large, pure white petals and a prominent golden-brown center cone. It grows up to 30 inches tall and blooms from midsummer to early fall.

Milkshake

Milkshake is a newer white echinacea variety that was introduced in 2004. It has wide, overlapping petals that give it a ruffled appearance and a prominent green center cone. Milkshake grows up to 30 inches tall and blooms from midsummer to early fall.

Fragrant Angel

Fragrant Angel is another popular white echinacea variety that was introduced in 2003. It has large, pure white petals and a prominent golden-brown center cone. Fragrant Angel is known for its sweet fragrance and grows up to 34 inches tall.

Caring for White Echinacea Varieties

White echinacea varieties are generally easy to care for and can thrive in a range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your white echinacea plants:

Light:

Echinacea plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers in shady spots.

Soil:

Echinacea plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate sandy or clay soils but will perform best in loamy soil.

Water:

Echinacea plants are drought-tolerant and can handle dry spells. However, they will perform best with regular watering during dry periods.

Fertilizer:

Echinacea plants don't require much fertilizer. A light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer in the spring should be sufficient.

Using White Echinacea Varieties in the Garden

White echinacea varieties are versatile plants that can be used in many different garden styles. Here are some ideas for using white echinacea in your garden:

As a Border Plant

White echinacea can be used as a border plant to define the edges of your garden beds. Plant them in groups of three or more for maximum impact.

In a Cottage Garden

White echinacea looks great in a cottage garden style, paired with other cottage garden favorites like delphiniums, phlox, and rudbeckia.

In a Pollinator Garden

Echinacea plants are great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Plant them in a sunny spot together with other pollinator-friendly plants like bee balm, salvia, and butterfly weed.

FAQs

1. Are white echinacea varieties difficult to grow?

Not at all! White echinacea varieties are generally easy to grow and can thrive in a range of growing conditions.

2. Do white echinacea varieties attract pollinators?

Yes, white echinacea varieties are great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

3. How tall do white echinacea plants grow?

White echinacea plants can grow anywhere from 24 to 36 inches tall, depending on the variety.

4. Can white echinacea be grown in containers?

Yes, white echinacea can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system.

5. Do white echinacea plants reseed themselves?

Yes, echinacea plants can reseed themselves. However, if you don't want them to spread too much, it's a good idea to deadhead the flowers before they go to seed.


White echinacea varieties are a beautiful addition to any garden. With their pure white petals and elegant appearance, they can add a touch of sophistication to any garden style. Whether you're planting them as a border plant or using them to attract pollinators, white echinacea is a versatile and easy-to-care-for plant that is sure to impress.