Plant Profile: Echinacea laevigata

The term "Echinacea" originates from the Greek word "echinos," which translates to sea urchin or hedgehog, a nod to the spiky cone shape at the center of the flowers in this genus. One notable species, Echinacea laevigata, is classified as federally endangered and can be found in the piedmont regions of the United States. This particular echinacea bears a resemblance to its close relative, Echinacea purpurea. These plants thrive in sunny environments and are commonly found along roadsides or in bright forested areas. They flourish in soils rich in calcium and magnesium and reproduce both through rhizomes and seeds.