Echinacea (asteraceae purpurea) Pink Parasol has stunning, large, deep purplish-pink blooms, with contrasting orange cones standing proudly above strong stems. Each bloom can reach 7-10cm (3-4in) in diameter compared to other varieties only reaching a diameter of 5-7cm (2-3in). Height 36-48 inches.

Once established, bushy plants produce clusters of stems adding height to your borders, attracting butterflies and beneficial insects to your garden, as well as making dramatic long lasting cut flowers.

Height 90-120cm (3-4ft)

Sow Feb-June (February sowings will flower in first year). Sow seeds onto the surface of a good, free-draining, damp, seed sowing mix. Cover with a very fine sprinkling of sowing mix or vermiculite. Place sown container in a propagator or seal container inside a plastic bag at a temperature of 15-20C (59-68F) until after germination which usually takes 10-21 days. Do not exclude light as this helps germination.

Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into trays or 7.5cm (3in) pots. Gradually acclimatize young plants to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost, 45cm (18in) apart.

For best results, provide any ordinary, well-drained soil in full sun.