Echinacea is not only one of the key herbs for promoting immune health but also one of the most stunning flowers in the garden. Among the nine species of echinacea, E. angustifolia, or narrow-leaved echinacea, is recognised as the most powerful. 
 
The term 'echinacea' comes from the Greek word 'echino,' meaning 'sea urchin' or 'hedgehog,' a fitting description for the spiky central disc of its blooms. Historically, Native American medicine utilized echinacea to treat various ailments, including snake bites and blood poisoning. The species name ‘angustifolia’ refers to its distinctly narrow leaves.
 
Due to its therapeutic benefits, echinacea has faced over-harvesting and is considered endangered in certain regions of the USA. Cultivating it can also be a challenge; it thrives in well-drained, slightly alkaline soil (with a pH of 6.5-7.5) and can suffer from root rot if the soil retains too much moisture. It’s best planted with a spacing of about 15cm, and the soil should be loosened to encourage deep root growth.