Coneflower Echinacea 'Hot Lava' (PBR)

Names

• Family

  Asteraceae

• Synonyms

  Coneflower, Hot Lava Coneflower

• Common names

  Echinacea 'Hot Lava' (PBR)

Toxicity

• To humans

  The Echinacea 'Hot Lava' is a cultivated variety of the common Coneflower. Generally, the Coneflower is not considered toxic to humans. In fact, Echinacea species are often used in herbal remedies for their purported immune-boosting properties. However, like any plant, there could be risks of allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals if parts of the plant are ingested or if the sap comes into contact with skin. It's always best to exercise caution and consult with healthcare providers before using any plant for medicinal purposes, especially when pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications.

• To pets

  The Echinacea 'Hot Lava', a type of Coneflower, is not typically considered toxic to pets. Ingestion of Coneflower plants may sometimes cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea in pets, but they are not known to be seriously poisonous. However, individual pets may have varying sensitivities, and it is always advisable to prevent pets from eating plants and to monitor them for any signs of illness after ingestion. If any adverse reactions are noticed, contact a veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Orange-red

• Height

  2 feet 24 inches [60-70 cm]

• Spread

  1.5 feet 18 inches [45-60 cm]

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  4-9

• Native area

  North America

General Benefits

• Attracts Pollinators: Echinacea 'Hot Lava' is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, helping to pollinate your garden.
• Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it ideal for xeriscaping and dry climates.
• Visual Interest: It provides vibrant color with its fiery red-orange flowers, adding aesthetic value to garden landscapes.
• Long Blooming: The plant has a lengthy blooming period, often from early to late summer, offering sustained beauty.
• Low Maintenance: Echinacea 'Hot Lava' generally requires minimal care, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
• Deer Resistant: It is not a preferred plant for deer, which can help prevent damage to your garden from grazing animals.
• Easy to Propagate: It can be easily propagated by division, allowing gardeners to expand their plantings without additional costs.
• Hardy: This perennial is known for its hardiness and can survive in a range of harsh conditions once established.

Medical Properties

• Immune system support: Echinacea is widely recognized for its potential to stimulate the immune system.
• Upper respiratory infections: It is traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of the common cold and other upper respiratory infections.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Components in Echinacea have been found to reduce inflammation, which might help in the management of various inflammatory conditions.
• Antiviral activity: Echinacea exhibits some antiviral properties which may aid in the fight against viruses.
• Wound healing: Echinacea has been used to promote wound healing due to its antimicrobial and immune-modulating effects.
• Antioxidant properties: The plant contains compounds with antioxidant effects that can help protect cells from oxidative stress.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Echinacea 'Hot Lava' can be used in floral arrangements to add a burst of color and unique texture; the bright petals and sturdy stems make them excellent as fresh or dried flowers in bouquets.
• The plant's seed heads can be left in the garden to add winter interest and texture to an otherwise barren landscape, providing aesthetic value even after the blooming season.
• Echinacea 'Hot Lava' can be planted to attract beneficial insects such as butterflies and bees, which are essential for pollination in a garden.
• The plant's striking flowers can be used as a natural dye source, providing colors ranging from pale yellow to green, depending on the mordant used.
• Echinacea 'Hot Lava' can be utilized as an educational tool in schools or community gardens to teach about plant lifecycles, pollination, and native plant gardening.
• The dried petals of Echinacea 'Hot Lava' can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures for a natural and visually appealing scent enhancer in homes.
• This type of Echinacea can be used in landscaping as a ground cover to prevent soil erosion due to its dense growth habit and root structure.
• Echinacea 'Hot Lava' can serve as a natural pest deterrent in gardens; some gardeners plant them near vegetables to help keep certain insects away.
• The plant can be used in wildlife gardens, as the seeds from spent flowers provide food for birds such as goldfinches during winter months.
• As a part of sensory gardens, Echinacea 'Hot Lava' provides a tactile experience with its unique cone-shaped center and spiky texture, which can be stimulating and educational for visitors.

Feng Shui

Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is not specifically 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, is well-regarded for its medicinal properties, especially for boosting the immune system and fighting off infections.
• Strength and Perseverance: Coneflower is a hardy plant that can withstand harsh conditions, symbolizing one's ability to endure and thrive despite challenges.
• Beauty and Attraction: With its striking 'Hot Lava' bright colors, the coneflower is also associated with attractiveness and a vibrant personality, much like the eye-catching flowers it produces.
• Integrity and Resourcefulness: Indigenous to North America, where it has been used by Native Americans for centuries, the coneflower signifies resourcefulness and a deep-rooted integrity linked with traditional healing uses.