Wild and strong, this stately plant is one of a dozen or so common Echinacea species. This one is also known as eastern purple coneflower, red sunflower and hedgehog coneflower. The plant shares botanical kinship with daisies, sunflowers, and chamomile ~ flowers known for their distinctive forms and strong presence in open landscapes. Native to the prairies, Echinacea is important to Indigenous cultures. Once transported to Europe, it quickly became naturalized and today often finds a place in gardens and kitchens alike.
In your cup, this Echinacea purpurea herb yields a pleasant, herbal tasting, light amber infusion. The aroma is gentle and earthy ~ with a subtle herbal freshness. Good Echinacea will make your tongue tingle - a sign of good herbs.
