Coneflower Echinacea 'Guava Ice' (PBR) (Cone-fections Series) (d)
ABOUT
Echinacea 'Guava Ice' is a strikingly colorful perennial known for its vibrant blooms. The flowers exhibit a delightful blend of warm tones, with petals that typically transition from a creamy yellow at the base to a soft pink or coral hue toward the tips, resembling the colors of guava fruit. The petals are broad and slightly reflexed, encircling a prominent, cone-shaped central disk that is rich in texture. This disk starts out a greenish color and becomes more orange to coppery as the flower matures, adding to the plant's overall exotic appeal. The leaves of 'Guava Ice' are deep green, with a lanceolate or slightly ovate shape, providing a lush background that further accentuates the beauty of the blossoms. The plant itself is bushy with a sturdy, upright habit, which allows the blooms to stand out prominently in the garden setting. As part of the Cone-fections Series, 'Guava Ice' shares the notable attribute of strong stems that make the flowers excellent for cutting and arranging in bouquets, where their unique coloring can be fully appreciated. Blooming from early to late summer, Echinacea 'Guava Ice' attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden, creating a lively and interactive display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Guava Ice Coneflower.
Common names
Echinacea 'Guava Ice' (PBR) (Cone-fections Series) (d)
ToxicityTo humans
Echinacea, commonly called coneflower, is not considered toxic to humans. Typically, Echinacea species are used in herbal remedies, especially for immune system support. While they are not toxic, consuming Echinacea in large quantities or by individuals with plant allergies might experience adverse effects such as dizziness, nausea, stomach pain, or rashes.
To pets
Coneflower is also not known to be toxic to pets. It is safe for dogs, cats, and other domestic animals if they happen to ingest it. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion in large amounts might cause mild gastrointestinal upset, which can include symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. If a pet displays such symptoms after consuming coneflower, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1.5 feet (45 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Echinacea 'Guava Ice' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are vital for the pollination of plants and the health of the garden.
- Drought resistance: Once established, this variety is drought-tolerant, making it suitable for regions with low rainfall or for gardeners seeking water-wise plants.
- Long blooming season: It offers a long flowering period that extends through summer and into fall, providing extended visual interest.
- Low maintenance: Echinacea 'Guava Ice' is easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep beyond basic watering and occasional deadheading to promote further blooming.
- Hardiness: This echinacea is hardy and can withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for a range of climates and outdoor gardens.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its unique peach-pink flower color, Echinacea 'Guava Ice' adds a splash of color to any garden or landscape.
- Wildlife friendly: The plant serves as a food source for wildlife, providing nectar for pollinators and seeds for birds in the winter.
Medical Properties- Immune System Support: Echinacea is widely known for its potential to boost the immune system by stimulating white blood cell production.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: It may reduce inflammation, which is beneficial in treating conditions like sore throats, coughs, and even urinary tract infections.
- Antiviral Activity: The plant may have antiviral properties which can be helpful against certain viruses like the common cold and flu.
- Antioxidant Properties: Echinacea contains compounds with antioxidant properties that help protect cells from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Wound Healing: It has been traditionally used to help with skin regeneration and healing of wounds due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Analgesic Properties: The plant may offer mild pain relief in conditions such as toothaches or throat pain, acting as an analgesic.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dried Flower Arrangements: Echinacea 'Guava Ice' can be used for creating dried floral arrangements due to its sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms.
- Wildlife Garden: The blooms attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees, making it an excellent choice for a wildlife-friendly garden.
- Photography: With its unique pinkish-orange hues, 'Guava Ice' provides a captivating subject for garden photography enthusiasts.
- Border Planting: 'Guava Ice' is suitable for adding color to perennial borders with its bright flowers and contrasting dark green foliage.
- Culinary Decoration: The petals of Echinacea 'Guava Ice' can be used to add a splash of color to salads and desserts, although they should not be ingested in large quantities.
- Companion Planting: It can be paired with other plants that require similar growing conditions to create a cohesive and supportive garden environment.
- Educational Tool: Gardeners and educators can use 'Guava Ice' to teach about plant biology, pollination, and the importance of native species in gardening.
- Artistic Inspiration: The bold colors and forms of Echinacea 'Guava Ice' provide inspiration for artists and crafters in various mediums.
- Potpourri: The fragrant leaves and dried flower heads can be incorporated into potpourri blends for a natural, earthy scent.
- Garden Theme Creation: It can be used to create a warm-colored garden theme when planted with other plants that have red, orange, and yellow flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, can be used in Feng Shui to introduce vibrant energy and to promote health and well-being. Its bright flowers are believed to enhance the chi in any space, making them suitable for the health area of the home or garden.
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, particularly in boosting the immune system and fighting off infections.
- Strength: The sturdy nature of the coneflower, which allows it to stand tall and resist tough weather conditions, represents strength and resilience.
- Integrity: Coneflowers' upright habit and unyielding posture are often associated with qualities of integrity and reliability.
- Purity: The 'Guava Ice' variety, with its soft and pastel hues, can symbolize purity and innocence.
- Resourcefulness: Echinacea plants are adaptable and resourceful, thriving in a variety of soil types and conditions, which can be symbolic of versatility and an ability to endure challenging environments.
WaterConeflower 'Guava Ice' prefers consistent moisture, especially during its blooming period and dry spells. Generally, water it deeply once a week, providing about one to two gallons per plant to saturate the root zone. During hot, dry weather, you may need to water twice a week. Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging. Cut back on watering as the plant becomes established and during cooler months, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between watering sessions.
LightConeflower 'Guava Ice' thrives in full sun with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot is an open area that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. It can tolerate some partial shade but may not bloom as prolifically. Ensure it's planted where the light is unfiltered by large trees or buildings.
TemperatureConeflower 'Guava Ice' is quite tolerant and can endure temperatures from around 40 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it grows best when daytime temperatures are between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive brief periods outside of this range but prolonged exposure to extreme cold or heat can be harmful.
PruningPruning coneflower 'Guava Ice' can promote a more compact growth habit and stimulate additional flowering. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. In late winter or early spring before new growth begins, cut back the plant to about 4 to 6 inches from the ground to help rejuvenate it for the upcoming season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower or Echinacea 'Guava Ice' thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of compost, loamy or sandy soil, and a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A layer of mulch helps retain moisture and maintain soil health.
RepottingConeflowers, like Echinacea 'Guava Ice', are perennial plants and do not require frequent repotting. They may be divided or repotted every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.
Humidity & MistingConeflower, commonly known as Echinacea 'Guava Ice', is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and generally prefers the average humidity found in outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure soil drainage.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, regular watering in dry spells.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea 'Guava Ice' begins its life cycle as a seed, which when sown in late winter to early spring, will germinate in a moist and well-draining soil mix at a warm temperature. As a seedling, it requires sun and consistent watering to develop strong roots and foliage. Transitioning into the vegetative stage, the plant grows leaves and stems, eventually forming a rosette-like structure, and it must be provided with full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Once mature, it enters the flowering stage, typically in the second year, producing distinctive, warm-toned, daisy-like flowers with a robust central cone throughout summer and into early fall, attracting pollinators. Following pollination, the flower heads will produce seeds which can be collected for propagation or left in situ to self-sow. The plant then enters dormancy in winter, dying back to the ground in colder climates, but with its root system remaining alive to resprout the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Echinacea 'Guava Ice', commonly known as Coneflower, is typically propagated by seed, but the most popular method, especially for patented varieties such as those in the Cone-fections Series, is by division of the clumps. To propagate Echinacea 'Guava Ice' through division, it's best to do so in either spring or fall. During this time, the plant is neither in full bloom nor dealing with the extremes of summer or winter, which allows for the best chance of successful rooting. The process involves digging up an established plant and gently separating it into smaller sections, making sure that each new section has a part of the crown and some roots attached. These sections can then be replanted immediately at the same depth they were originally growing, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to ensure adequate room for growth. With proper care, these new divisions will establish themselves and thrive, continuing the lineage of the 'Guava Ice' Coneflower in the garden.
