Monday, June 16, 2008

What kind of flower are you?

"You are a health conscious person, both your health and the health of others. You know all about the health benefits and dangers of the world around you."

Well, I don't know about knowing all about this, but I do tend to think of others before myself. Sometimes this is not a good thing. I do believe that it is important to think about what is best for me. Not so easy to do, but I try.

I am an
Echinacea

What Flower
Are You?



This plant is usually found in sunny locations, but they will do fine in dappled shade especially here in the hot Texas sun. There are several species but they each have that unmistakable form. The flowers are arranged individually on sturdy, 2-6 ft. stems and long-lasting soft lavender or purple petals surrounding an iridescent red-orange, coned center. The leaves are rough, scattered that become small toward the top of the stem. Because of the prickly center of the flower one of its common names is hedge hog.

Echinacea is one of the most cultivated flowers for use for medicinal purposes and has been used as a folk remedy by Indians and the early settlers. Today it is most commonly used as a boost to stimulate the immune system to help us ward off the common cold.

An excellent variety for your garden and for cut flower arrangements with a vase life of 5 to 7 days.