climate
Eleuthero grows in mixed and coniferous mountain forests, forming low
undergrowth or is found in groups in thickets and edges. It is sometimes
found in oak groves at the foot of cliffs, very rarely in high forest
riparian woodland. It can tolerate sun or dappled shade.
soil
Eleuthero is adaptable to many soils, growing in sandy, loamy, and heavy
clay soils with acid, neutral, or alkaline chemistry and including poor
soils.
growing
Sow seeds as soon as they are ripe in the autumn in a cold frame. Seeds can
be slow to germinate. Stored seed requires 6 months warm followed by 3
months cold. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots when they are
large enough to handle and grow them on in light shade in a cold frame or
greenhouse for at least the first winter. Plant out in late spring or early
summer. This plant may also be propagated by cuttings or division.
harvesting
The roots are harvested in the autumn, cut and dried for later use. Dried
root may also be ground in powder.
To harvest Echinacea roots, lift the
plant and tip it back using a garden fork. Use a very sharp knife and
clean-cut the portions of root that you want to harvest. Be sure to leave
enough roots to sustain the plant. A good rule of thumb is to harvest about
20% of root if you intend to make annual harvests. Dry the roots (cut into
small pieces) and leaves.
preserving
Store dried root pieces or powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
