Coneflower Echinacea 'Mac 'n' Cheese' (PBR)
ABOUT
Echinacea 'Mac 'n' Cheese' is a vibrant and eye-catching perennial known for its unique and bright yellow, daisy-like flowers. The central cone of the flower, prominent and slightly spiky, usually exhibits a rich, orange-brown hue that stands in striking contrast with the yellow petals. The petals themselves are long, narrow, and slightly reflexed, drooping gracefully downward from the cone as they mature, giving a relaxed appearance to the flowerhead. The foliage of Echinacea 'Mac 'n' Cheese' is dark green and lance-shaped with a rough texture, creating an appealing backdrop that makes the flowers stand out even more. This plant typically has a strong, upright habit, with sturdy stems that support the blooms well above the foliage, making it a visually appealing addition to any garden setting. It exudes a sense of warmth and brightness, emulating the comforting and inviting hues of the classic dish it is named after. Its lively color and robust form make it a favorite amongst gardeners looking to add a splash of color and vivacity to their plantings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Coneflower
Common names
Echinacea 'Mac 'n' Cheese' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Coneflower, which includes Echinacea 'Mac 'n' Cheese', is not toxic to humans. Typically, Echinacea is known for its medicinal properties, especially for bolstering the immune system. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or stomach upset if they are sensitive to the plant or consume it in large quantities.
To pets
Coneflower, specific to Echinacea 'Mac 'n' Cheese', is generally considered non-toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. While it is not likely to cause serious harm if ingested, pets with particular sensitivities might experience mild gastrointestinal upset. It is always advisable to monitor your pet and consult with a veterinarian if you notice any adverse reactions after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Echinacea 'Mac 'n' Cheese' is known to attract bees and butterflies, which can help pollinate your garden.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, this plant is quite drought-tolerant, making it a good option for water-wise gardening.
- Easy to grow: It is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types and doesn't require a lot of maintenance.
- Long blooming period: With a blooming season from early to late summer, it provides vibrant color in the garden for an extended period.
- Deer resistance: The plant is not a preferred food source for deer, making it a good choice for areas where deer may be a problem.
- Landscape versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden settings such as borders, prairie gardens, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Visual appeal: The bright yellow flowers of the 'Mac 'n' Cheese' variety add a pop of color to any garden setting.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Companion Planting: Echinacea can be planted alongside vegetables such as tomatoes to attract pollinators and beneficial insects which can aid in better fruit set.
- Natural Fabric Dyes: The flowers and leaves of Echinacea can be used to produce natural dyes for fabrics, yielding colors from pale greens to yellows.
- Photography: The vibrant colors of Echinacea 'Mac 'n' Cheese' make it a popular subject for garden photographers and plant enthusiasts.
- Artistic Inspiration: The unique appearance of the Echinacea flowers can inspire artists and be used as a model for botanical drawings and paintings.
- Educational Use: Echinacea species can be used in educational settings to teach about plant biology, pollination, and the importance of native plant species in ecosystems.
- Garden Themed Events: Echinacea flowers can be used to decorate during garden parties or outdoor events, adding natural beauty to the setting.
- Homemade Potpourri: Dried Echinacea flower heads can be added to potpourri mixes for their shape and subtle fragrance.
- Aromatherapy: While not as common as other herbs, Echinacea can be used in homemade aromatherapy preparations for its mild and pleasant scent.
- Crafts: Echinacea flowers can be used in various crafts, such as making pressed flower bookmarks or adding a natural touch to handmade cards and scrapbooks.
- Rain gardens: Echinacea is suitable for rain gardens where its hardy nature helps in preventing soil erosion and managing stormwater runoff.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Echinacea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Echinacea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is often associated with healing due to its historical medicinal use, particularly in boosting the immune system.
- Strength: The sturdy nature and resilience of the coneflower represent strength and the ability to withstand tough conditions.
- Purity: Coneflowers often symbolize purity or cleanliness, which might be attributed to their use in cleansing the body of illness.
- Resourcefulness: The plant's ability to adapt to various environments makes it a symbol of resourcefulness and versatility.
WaterConeflowers should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and that you're not just wetting the surface layer, but actually allowing the water to reach down to the roots. This could generally correspond to around 1 gallon of water per plant for each watering session in hot, dry periods, and less if the weather is cool or rainy. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
LightConeflowers prefer full sun, which means they thrive best when they receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Place them in a spot where they are exposed to unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day. While they can tolerate some partial shade, too little light can lead to weak stems and fewer blooms.
TemperatureConeflowers are quite hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. They can survive in temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 100°F. Ideally, they prefer being in a location where the temperature ranges between 65°F to 70°F during the growing season.
PruningPruning coneflowers can help to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continued blooming. After the first killing frost, cut the plants back to just above ground level, which is also the best time for a more comprehensive pruning. Pruning in late winter or early spring can also help remove any dead or damaged foliage and stimulate new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower 'Mac 'n' Cheese' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. The ideal soil mix for this plant would be a combination of garden soil, compost, and sand to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Adequate organic matter is essential to provide nutrients and support robust growth.
RepottingConeflower 'Mac 'n' Cheese' is typically grown as a perennial outdoor plant and does not require frequent repotting. However, if grown in a container, it should be repotted every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot.
Humidity & MistingConeflower 'Mac 'n' Cheese' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and thrives in the average outdoor humidity found in its native environment. It does not require any special humidity adjustments when grown outdoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a bright spot and water when dry.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, water when dry.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea 'Mac 'n' Cheese', or Coneflower, begins its life cycle as a seed that, once sown, germinates within 10-20 days in warm soil. The seedling emerges, growing into a rosette of leaves during its first year, establishing a root system but typically not flowering. In its second year, the plant shifts energy from root development to vegetative growth, producing tall stems and larger leaves. By mid-summer, distinctive yellow flowers with a central cone bloom, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After flowering, seeds develop and are dispersed by wind, or they can be collected for propagation. The plant then enters a period of dormancy over winter, with the root system surviving underground to begin the cycle again in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Echinacea 'Mac 'n' Cheese', commonly known as Coneflower, is generally propagated by division, which is the most popular method for this perennial plant. The ideal time for dividing is either in early spring or early fall when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump and gently separate it into smaller clumps, ensuring each new section has a portion of the root system. These divisions should then be replanted in well-draining soil at the same depth they were originally growing. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. Proper spacing is important to allow for growth, usually about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart. This method helps to maintain the health and vigor of the parent plant while also producing new plants that are genetically identical.
