Coneflower Echinacea Sunseekers Salmon = 'Ifecsssal' (Sunseekers Series)
ABOUT
Echinacea Sunseekers Salmon 'Ifecsssal' is a vibrant herbaceous plant known for its striking flowers. The blossoms are a captivating salmon color with a warm, pinkish-orange hue that is distinctive and inviting. Each flower is characterized by a prominent, raised cone-shaped center that is a deep, rich shade of orange to copper, often with a spiky texture. This cone center is encircled by numerous slender petals that radiate outwards, creating a daisy-like formation. These petals are slightly reflexed, meaning they gently curve downward, which adds to the visual interest of the plant's bloom. The foliage of the Echinacea Sunseekers Salmon is a deep green color, with leaves that are lance-shaped and have a toothed edge, giving them a rough, textured look. The leaves grow densely, creating an attractive backdrop for the showy flowers. This lush greenery enhances the salmon hues, making the colors of the blooms pop even more. Throughout the blooming period, the vibrant flowers stand out against the green foliage, attracting pollinators such as butterflies and bees, which adds to the dynamic display of the garden. The plant exudes a sense of vitality and warmth, making it an alluring addition to any garden setting where its colorful presence can be fully appreciated.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Coneflower
Common names
Echinacea Sunseekers Salmon = 'Ifecsssal'.
ToxicityTo humans
Echinacea (the common name for Echinacea Sunseekers Salmon = 'Ifecsssal') is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is commonly used in herbal remedies for its potential immune-boosting properties. However, some people may experience allergies or side effects such as rashes, worsening asthma, or anaphylaxis, especially if they have allergies to other plants in the daisy family. Ingesting parts of this plant is generally safe, but as with any plant or supplement, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before consumption.
To pets
Echinacea (the common name for Echinacea Sunseekers Salmon = 'Ifecsssal') is not known to be toxic to pets. It is sometimes used in pet supplements for its potential immune-boosting effects. However, pets that consume Echinacea may occasionally experience gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. If a pet ingests large quantities of this plant and displays symptoms, it's advisable to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Salmon
Height
2 feet 6 inches (76 cm)
Spread
1 foot 8 inches (50 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Echinacea Sunseekers Salmon draws bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that help with pollination.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it is drought resistant and can thrive with minimal care.
- Long Blooming Period: Offers vibrant colors with its flowers from early summer to autumn.
- Good Cut Flowers: The blossoms make for a long-lasting and attractive option for bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Hardy: It is tolerant to a range of climates, including colder temperatures and can survive in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9.
- Visual Appeal: Its salmon-pink flowers add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Erosion Control: This plant's root system can help stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides food and habitat for wildlife, particularly birds which are attracted to their seeds.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Echinacea can be used as a natural fabric dye due to the pigment in its petals, imparting shades of gold and green depending on the fabric's material.
- The sturdy stems of Echinacea can be gathered and used in basketry or as a natural weaving material for crafting.
- With its attractive appearance, Echinacea can serve as a subject in botanical art and illustration for its vibrant colors and unique cone structure.
- The dried seed heads of Echinacea can be used in flower arrangements, adding an interesting texture and a touch of nature to indoor décor.
- Large patches of Echinacea can be planted to aid in soil erosion control, as their root systems help hold the soil together.
- Echinacea leaves and petals are sometimes incorporated into hand-made soaps for an exfoliating texture and natural coloring.
- Aromatic oils can be extracted from Echinacea flowers for use in natural perfumery for their subtly sweet fragrance.
- Echinacea can be used in photography workshops and macro photography for its intricate details and rich color palette.
- The reflective qualities of Echinacea petals can be harnessed in garden design, using them to create light patterns as the sun shines through them.
- Echinacea plants can serve as educational tools in horticulture classes, demonstrating plant growth, pollination, and the lifecycle of perennials.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiConeflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityConeflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing and Health: Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, has a rich history in herbal medicine, often associated with boosting the immune system and promoting healing.
- Strength and Resilience: The coneflower is a hardy plant able to thrive in a variety of conditions, symbolizing an individual's ability to endure and recover from challenges.
- Integrity and Resourcefulness: Coneflower's ability to attract pollinators and support the ecosystem reflects qualities of integrity and the capacity to thrive through resourcefulness.
- Beauty and Attraction: With its salmon-pink petals, coneflower is not only aesthetically pleasing but also suggests an allure or magnetism in its symbolism.
WaterConeflowers should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. During the growing season, water them early in the morning to allow the foliage to dry out during the day which helps prevent disease. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, whether from rainfall or supplemental watering. In terms of gallons, this translates to approximately 0.623 gallons per square foot per week. During hot, dry spells, you might need to water more frequently to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged.
LightConeflowers thrive in full sun and require a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day to grow strong and healthy. An ideal location would be an open area free from significant shade where they can receive unfiltered sunlight. If grown in too much shade, the plants may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
TemperatureConeflowers are quite hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, from summer highs reaching into the 90°F down to winter lows of around -30°F. They grow best in temperatures between 65°F and 70°F. They're resilient and can survive temporary dips and spikes outside this range, but prolonged exposure to extremes could be harmful.
PruningPrune coneflowers to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly during the blooming season to promote further blooming. In late winter or early spring, prune back the entire plant to about 3-4 inches above the ground to prepare for new growth. This should be done annually for the healthiest plants and best floral display.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower (Echinacea) 'Sunseekers Salmon' prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. A mix containing garden soil, compost, and some sand or perlite would be ideal to maintain proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingConeflowers, including 'Sunseekers Salmon', typically do not require frequent repotting and can often thrive for several years before being divided or repotted. Check the roots every 2-3 years and repot if necessary.
Humidity & MistingConeflower 'Sunseekers Salmon' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions. However, it thrives in natural outdoor humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a bright spot and water regularly.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea, commonly known as coneflower, begins its life as a seed which germinates in soil with adequate warmth and moisture, typically in spring or early summer. The seedling emerges, developing a rosette of leaves at ground level before sending up a stem. As it grows, the coneflower produces sturdy stems and large, daisy-like flowers with a central cone that ranges in color, with the 'Ifecsssal' variety being a salmon color. The flowering stage occurs in the summer, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators essential for the plant's reproduction. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed heads, which dry and disperse seeds for the next generation. The plant then enters a period of dormancy in the winter, where above-ground parts may die back, and it survives through its root system until the cycle begins anew the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Echinacea Sunseekers Salmon, commonly known as Coneflower, is typically propagated by seed. The most popular method involves sowing the seeds in the spring after the threat of frost has passed. To ensure a good start, seeds should be lightly covered with about 1/8 inch of soil and kept moist until germination occurs, which usually takes 10-20 days. Coneflower seeds can also be stratified by placing them in a moist medium within a plastic bag and refrigerating for about two months before planting, mimicking winter conditions and improving germination rates. This method allows the plant's natural growth cycle to trigger seed germination, resulting in healthy and vigorous growth.
