Coneflower Echinacea 'Elegance' (PBR) (Supreme Series) (d)
ABOUT
Echinacea 'Elegance', part of the Supreme Series, is a perennial plant that is recognized for its striking ornamental qualities. This variety showcases a robust and vibrant appearance with prominent coneflower blossoms that are a central feature in the display it provides. The flowers of Echinacea 'Elegance' are particularly notable for their large, daisy-like shape and the rich, vivid colors they exhibit. The blooms typically boast a bold, central cone that is surrounded by a ring of petals. These petals tend to be broad and slightly recurved, emanating outwards from the cone in a manner that is reminiscent of a shuttlecock or an extended sunburst. The cone itself at the heart of each flower is where the plant gets its common name—coneflower—from and is raised above the petals, offering a textural contrast with its spiky surface that can catch the eye of any onlooker. It is not uncommon for the cones to have a pronounced presence, often displaying a darker hue that can vary from shades of brown to deep maroon or even an orange cast, dependent on the specific variety within the species. Color-wise, the petals of Echinacea 'Elegance' are typically found in a range of pink to purple shades, sometimes bearing petals that gradient from a more intense hue at the base to a paler or sometimes nearly white tip. The petals themselves can look somewhat papery or velvety, contributing to the overall lush appearance of the flower. Below the flowers, the foliage of this plant consists of deep green leaves that are lance-shaped with a texture that can be described as rough or slightly hairy. These leaves can vary in size and are arranged alternately along the sturdy stems of the plant. They provide a verdant backdrop to showcase the flowers and can be quite resilient, contributing to the sturdy visual profile of the Echinacea 'Elegance'. During blooming periods, the plant can become a focal point in any garden due to the flowers' long-lasting nature and their tendency to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, bringing additional life and movement to their surroundings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Coneflower
Common names
Echinacea 'Elegance' (PBR) (Supreme Series) (d).
ToxicityTo humans
Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is not known to be toxic to humans. In fact, parts of the plant, such as the roots and flowers, are often used in herbal medicine, primarily to support the immune system. There have been no commonly reported symptoms of poisoning from ingesting Echinacea. However, as with any plant or herbal supplement, it is possible for some individuals to experience allergies or adverse reactions, especially if they have allergies to other plants in the daisy family.
To pets
Echinacea, or coneflower, is generally considered non-toxic to pets. It does not typically cause poisoning in animals when ingested. If a pet consumes part of an Echinacea plant, it is unlikely to experience any significant symptoms of poisoning. However, individual pets may have different sensitivities, and some might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, particularly if they consume large quantities of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet 6 inches (76 centimeters)
Spread
1 foot 8 inches (51 centimeters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is renowned for drawing in bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects which are essential for pollination and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
- Drought-tolerant: Coneflower plants are known for their ability to withstand periods of low rainfall, making them an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
- Low maintenance: Echinacea 'Elegance' requires minimal care, making it a convenient option for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Long blooming period: Coneflowers typically have a long flowering season, providing a continual display of color in the garden from early summer to autumn.
- Hardy: This variety is robust and able to survive cold winters, making it suitable for a variety of climates and gardens.
- Wildlife Habitat: Coneflowers offer shelter and food to a variety of wildlife, including songbirds who feed on the seeds in the late season.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its beautiful flowers and upright habit, Echinacea 'Elegance' adds visual interest and beauty to garden beds, borders, and landscape designs.
Medical Properties- Immune system enhancement: Echinacea 'Elegance' is commonly used to stimulate the immune system.
- Upper respiratory infection relief: It may help reduce symptoms of common colds and other upper respiratory infections.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Echinacea 'Elegance' has been traditionally used for its potential to reduce inflammation.
- Wound healing support: It is thought to aid in the healing of cuts and wounds by promoting skin regeneration.
- Antimicrobial activity: The plant may possess antimicrobial properties that help fight certain bacteria and viruses.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic inspiration: Echinacea 'Elegance' is often used by artists and photographers for its unique colors and structures, serving as an inspiring subject for paintings, drawings, and photographs.
- Dye for fabrics: The petals and seed heads of Echinacea can be harvested to create natural dyes for coloring textiles, yielding hues ranging from green to yellow and brown, depending on the mordant used.
- Educational tool: In schools and nature programs, Echinacea 'Elegance' can be utilized to teach students about plant biology, pollination, and the importance of preserving native species.
- Garden design: Its tall stature and colorful blooms make Echinacea 'Elegance' an ideal candidate for use in ornamental garden design, especially in prairie-style or naturalistic landscapes.
- Floral arrangements: Echinacea flowers, with their distinctive cone-shaped centers, add texture and interest to fresh and dried floral arrangements.
- Companion planting: Echinacea 'Elegance' can be used in vegetable gardens to attract beneficial insects like pollinators and to help deter some pests naturally.
- Erosion control: The deep roots of Echinacea plants can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Wildlife habitat: By planting Echinacea 'Elegance', gardeners can provide a habitat and food source for wildlife, including birds that feed on the seeds and insects that rely on the nectar.
- Craft material: Seed heads and dried flowers of Echinacea can be incorporated into various crafts, from homemade paper to potpourris, wreaths, and ornaments.
- Symbolism and gifting: Echinacea can be used in symbolic planting, such as in memorial gardens, or given as a gift to convey a message of strength and healing due to its association with those traits in herbal medicine.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Coneflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Coneflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Echinacea, commonly known as Coneflower, is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, especially in boosting the immune system and fighting off infections.
- Strength: The plant's ability to withstand harsh conditions and remain sturdy reflects the symbolic meaning of strength and resilience.
- Purity: The bright, open flowers of the Coneflower suggest purity and cleanliness, often associated with its cleansing properties.
WaterConeflowers should be watered deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. For established plants, watering once a week with about one inch of water (approximately 0.6 gallons per square yard) is often sufficient. During particularly hot or dry periods, they may require additional water. The best method is to use a drip irrigation system or a soaker hose to ensure deep watering without wetting the foliage, which can help prevent fungal diseases. Adjust your watering schedule according to the weather and your specific garden conditions.
LightConeflowers thrive in full sun, meaning they require at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. They are adaptable and can also perform well in partial sun, but for best blooming and health, a sunny spot in the garden is ideal. Avoid deep shade locations as this will reduce the plant’s vigor and flowering potential.
TemperatureConeflowers are hardy and can withstand a wide range of temperatures. They can typically survive winter cold down to -30°F and summer heat up to 100°F. The ideal growing temperatures for coneflowers are between 60°F and 85°F, which promotes healthy growth and flowering.
PruningConeflowers benefit from pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continued flowering. In early spring, cut back the entire plant to about 4-6 inches to encourage new growth. Pruning can also be done after the first flush of blooms to rejuvenate the plant and encourage a second round of flowering in late summer or early fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflowers thrive in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, between 6.5 and 7.5. A good mix for Echinacea 'Elegance' would be loamy soil amended with compost and a balance of sand and peat for proper drainage.
RepottingConeflowers, such as Echinacea 'Elegance', typically do not need to be repotted often as they are usually grown as perennials in outdoor gardens. If grown in containers, repotting every 2 to 3 years can be sufficient to refresh the soil and provide space for growth.
Humidity & MistingConeflowers prefer moderate ambient humidity but are quite tolerant of a range of conditions. They can thrive in average humidity levels found in most outdoor environments without the need for specific adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun exposure and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, and space for air circulation.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea 'Elegance' (also known as Coneflower) begins its life as a seed which, when sown, germinates in soil favorable for its growth—typically well-draining and with ample sunlight. Upon sprouting, the seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with characteristic basal leaves. As it matures, the plant develops a strong stem and more complex leaf structure and eventually produces distinctive flowers, often during the second year after sowing, with pink-purple petals surrounding a prominent central cone. After the blooming period, which occurs in the late summer to early fall, the flowers are pollinated, following which they produce seeds that mature and are dispersed by wind or wildlife. Throughout the winter, the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, but its roots (often in the form of a rhizome) remain alive and enable the plant to regrow the following spring, completing the perennial cycle. Over time, the clump may enlarge requiring division to maintain vigor, typically carried out in the spring or fall.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
Echinacea 'Elegance' (PBR) (Supreme Series), also commonly known as Purple Coneflower, can be effectively propagated through a popular method known as division. Division is best performed in the spring or fall when the plant is not in active blooming phase. This method involves carefully digging up the entire clump of Echinacea and then gently separating the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has a part of the root system and some shoots. These new divisions can then be immediately transplanted into well-prepared garden soil, ideally spaced about 12 to 18 inches (approximately 30 to 46 centimeters) apart to allow ample room for growth. The transplanted divisions should be adequately watered to settle the roots and facilitate establishment in their new location.
