Coneflower Echinacea 'Catharina Red'

Names

• Synonyms

  Purple Coneflower, Eastern Purple Coneflower, Red Coneflower

• Common names

  Echinacea 'Catharina Red'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Echinacea, commonly referred to as coneflower, including the Echinacea 'Catharina Red' variety, is generally considered non-toxic to humans when used appropriately. It is widely used in herbal remedies and is thought to have immune-boosting properties. However, some individuals may experience adverse reactions to Echinacea, particularly if they have allergies to other plants in the Asteraceae family, a preexisting medical condition, or if they consume the plant in excessive quantities. Such reactions could potentially include dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, headaches, or an allergic reaction such as a rash. However, for most people, Echinacea is safe when ingested in moderation as part of herbal preparations.

• To pets

  Coneflower, including the Echinacea 'Catharina Red' variety, is typically considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Although it is used as a herbal supplement for various health benefits in humans, pets do not generally experience negative effects if they ingest this plant. However, as with the consumption of any non-food item, there is a possibility of mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, if a pet eats a large amount of the plant. These symptoms are usually self-limiting and do not require medical attention unless they are severe or persist. If a pet is known to have a specific allergy to Echinacea or exhibits adverse symptoms after ingestion, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Red

• Height

  2 feet (60 cm)

• Spread

  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  3-8

• Native area

  North America

General Benefits

• Attracts Pollinators: Echinacea plants are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that pollinate flowers.
• Aesthetic Appeal: With its vibrant red flowers, the Echinacea 'Catharina Red' adds striking color to gardens and landscapes.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, Echinacea plants are drought-resistant, requiring minimal watering.
• Low Maintenance: This perennial requires little care once it is established, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
• Long Blooming Period: The plant has a lengthy flowering season, often from early summer to autumn, providing long-lasting garden interest.
• Deer Resistance: Echinacea is not a preferred food source for deer, making it a good choice for areas with deer populations.
• Supports Wildlife: The seeds of Echinacea 'Catharina Red' can provide food for birds, particularly finches, in the fall and winter.

Medical Properties

• Immune system support: Echinacea purpurea is traditionally used to enhance immune system function.
• Upper respiratory infections: May help to alleviate symptoms associated with colds and flu.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Contains compounds that may reduce inflammation.
• Wound healing: Has been used topically to assist in healing minor wounds and skin irritations.
• Antioxidant properties: Like many plants, echinacea contains antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress.
• Antimicrobial activity: It may offer mild antimicrobial benefits against certain bacteria and viruses.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Echinacea can be used as a natural dye, yielding various shades of pink, green, or brown depending on the part of the plant used and the mordant applied in the dyeing process.
• The sturdy stems of Echinacea plants can be left standing in the winter garden to provide visual interest and texture against a barren landscape.
• The seed heads of Echinacea can be used in dried floral arrangements, adding a rustic and natural touch to bouquets and decorative displays.
• Echinacea plants can be planted as a companion for vegetables like tomatoes, to potentially help repel harmful insects due to their strong scent.
• The petals of Echinacea can be used for crafting homemade potpourri, contributing a subtle fragrance and beautiful color to the mixture.
• Echinacea has been traditionally used among Indigenous peoples for its fibrous stems, which can be transformed into cords or textiles.
• During winter, Echinacea seed heads can serve as a natural food source for birds, especially finches, that prefer the seeds.
• As a teaching tool in botanical education, Echinacea can be used to illustrate plant structure and pollinator interactions to students of all ages.
• Echinacea's distinct cone-shaped flowers can be used as natural stamps for eco-printing, creating patterns and designs on fabric or paper.
• In landscape design, Echinacea can play a role as a dividing plant, creating natural borders between different garden sections or along pathways.

Feng Shui

Coneflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

Coneflower is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Healing and Health: Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, has long been associated with healing due to its medicinal properties. It's commonly used to boost the immune system and ward off colds and other infections.
• Strength and Durability: Coneflowers are robust and can withstand harsh conditions, symbolizing strength and the ability to cope with adversity.
• Integrity and Honesty: The straightforward appearance of the coneflower, with its prominent, upright central cone, signifies characteristics of integrity and honesty.
• Beauty and Attraction: With its bright red flowers, 'Catharina Red' coneflower represents beauty and can symbolize an attraction or allure thanks to its vivid and eye-catching appearance.
• Purity and Simplicity: The coneflower blooms with a simple elegance, often signifying purity and straightforwardness in its form and presence in traditional medicine.