Coneflower Echinacea 'Mama Mia' (PBR)
ABOUT
Echinacea 'Mama Mia' is a vibrant herbaceous perennial known for its striking flowers and robust nature. This plant features a mound of dark green leaves that provide a lush backdrop for its most prominent feature: the large, daisy-like flowers. These blooms take center stage with their impressive size, showcasing a warm gradient of color that shifts from the base to the tips of the petals. The flowers typically exhibit an eye-catching display, starting with shades of scarlet-red and transitioning through coral, peach, and finally reaching a delicate light pink or orange hue at the petal edges. The central cones of the blooms rise prominently above the surrounding petals, presenting a bold, bristly appearance that may range in color from deep brown to orange or rust, with a spiky texture that adds to the visual interest of the plant. These cones are not only aesthetically pleasing but also attract a variety of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, adding a buzz of activity to the garden. As the flowers mature, they develop a more pronounced cone, which remains attractive well into the late season and can add structural beauty to the winter garden when left standing. Echinacea 'Mama Mia' exhibits a sturdy constitution, with the flowers borne on strong stems that rise elegantly above the foliage, swaying gently in the breeze and providing a long season of bloom from early to late summer. Overall, this Echinacea cultivar brings a dynamic and evolving color show to any garden space, with its flowers offering a changing palette throughout the flowering period. Its hardiness and the beauty of its blossoms make it a popular choice for borders, cottage gardens, and naturalized areas where it can freely express its striking appearance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Coneflower
Common names
Echinacea 'Mama Mia' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Coneflower, including the 'Mama Mia' cultivar, is not considered toxic to humans. In fact, Echinacea spp. is commonly used in herbal medicine for its potential immune-boosting properties. However, sensitivity varies among individuals, and some people might experience allergic reactions or gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of the plant or handle it. Such reactions could include nausea, dizziness, or rashes, but these are generally rare and often related to an existing allergy or overconsumption.
To pets
Coneflower is also not typically toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe for dogs and cats, and is not known to cause serious poisoning if ingested. However, as with humans, individual pets may have different sensitivities, and consuming plant material may potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, especially if consumed in large quantities. If you notice any adverse reactions in your pet after they have ingested coneflower, it is a good idea to consult your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Echinacea 'Mama Mia' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
- Drought resistance: Once established, this plant is quite drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens.
- Long blooming period: It has a lengthy blooming season, providing vibrant color and interest in the garden from early summer to fall.
- Low maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Deer resistance: Typically resistant to grazing by deer, which can be beneficial in areas where deer are a common garden pest.
- Adapts to various soils: Can grow in a range of soil types, although it prefers well-draining soil, which is advantageous for different garden conditions.
Medical Properties- Immune System Support: Echinacea is commonly believed to boost the immune system, potentially helping to prevent or reduce the severity of colds and flu.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Components in echinacea can help reduce inflammation, which might be beneficial in managing conditions such as arthritis or skin inflammation.
- Antibacterial and Antiviral Properties: Echinacea is thought to possess natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, which may help it fight various infections.
- Wound Healing: Traditional use includes topical application to help promote the healing of wounds and skin irritations.
- Respiratory Health: Echinacea has been used to support respiratory health, potentially providing relief from symptoms of upper respiratory infections.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Echinacea 'Mama Mia' can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of hues from soft pinks to deep purples depending on the mordant used.
- The blooms of Echinacea provide an ornamental addition to floral arrangements, maintaining color and structure when dried.
- Echinacea serves as a companion plant in vegetable gardens, reputed to enhance the growth of crops like tomatoes by attracting beneficial insects.
- The sturdy stems of Echinacea can be used in basket weaving, offering a natural and rustic material for crafting.
- The plant's flowers can be incorporated into homemade potpourris for natural fragrance, often mixed with other herbs and flowers.
- Echinacea petals can be used in crafting handmade soaps, imparting a delicate color and texture.
- The seed heads of Echinacea are ideal for bird feeders, as they attract finches and other seed-eating birds in the autumn.
- Echinacea's roots can be used in natural insect repellent concoctions, although efficacy varies and it is not as well-known as other repellent plants.
- The pressed flowers of Echinacea make for beautiful art, used in creating bookmarks, cards, and other paper crafts.
- Echinacea leaves can be used as mulch, providing essential nutrients to the soil as they decompose.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, can be used in Feng Shui for its health-boosting properties and to add a splash of color, which can lift the chi or energy of a space. Coneflowers are often used in areas where you want to promote wellness and vitality, such as the health area or the family zone of the Bagua map.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe coneflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is widely regarded as a symbol of healing due to its medicinal properties used in herbal remedies to boost the immune system.
- Strength: The sturdy nature of the coneflower plant, which can withstand challenging conditions, makes it a symbol of inner strength and resilience.
- Integrity: With echinacea's roots being used for therapeutic purposes, it also represents integrity and authenticity, reminding us to be true to ourselves.
- Resourcefulness: Echinacea's variety of uses, from ornamental to medicinal, signifies resourcefulness and versatility.
- Beauty: With its attractive flowers and rich colors, the coneflower symbolizes natural beauty and grace.
WaterConeflower 'Mama Mia' needs regular watering, especially during prolonged dry spells. A deep watering about once a week is beneficial, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. Typically, giving the plant about one inch of water per week is adequate, but this might need to be increased during hotter, dryer periods. It's best to water early in the day to reduce evaporation and allow foliage to dry, thus preventing fungal diseases. Avoid overhead watering to minimize leaf wetness and instead water at the base of the plant, using a soaker hose or drip irrigation to target the roots directly.
LightConeflower 'Mama Mia' thrives in full sun, so it's ideal to plant it in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate some light shade, particularly in hotter climates, but flowering may be reduced. Ensure the spot is open and not shaded by taller plants as coneflowers grow best with ample light.
TemperatureConeflower 'Mama Mia' prefers a temperature range between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can withstand temperatures as low as the mid-30s and as high as the mid-80s without significant stress. They are cold hardy and can survive winter temperatures down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, making them suitable for a wide range of climates within their hardiness zones.
PruningPruning Coneflower 'Mama Mia' is mainly done to deadhead spent flowers, which encourages additional blooming and prevents excessive self-seeding. You can also prune back the plant in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged growth. Cutting the plants back by a third after initial flowering can also promote a second wave of blooms. It's best to prune coneflowers in late fall or early spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower 'Mama Mia' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. A soil mix of loam, compost, and sand or perlite ensures proper drainage. Enriching the soil with organic matter will promote healthy growth.
RepottingConeflower 'Mama Mia' generally doesn't require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 3-4 years, or when it outgrows the current pot.
Humidity & MistingConeflower 'Mama Mia' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average outdoor humidity conditions without specific requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun and well-draining soil to grow indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, enrich soil with compost for best growth.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Echinacea 'Mama Mia' begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in the late winter or early spring when soil temperatures warm. Following germination, seedlings emerge, gradually developing a rosette of leaves near the soil surface. As the plant matures during its first growing season, it establishes a strong root system but may not bloom in its first year. In subsequent years, the Echinacea 'Mama Mia' enters its flowering stage in early to mid-summer, producing vibrant, daisy-like flowers with a prominent central cone that attracts pollinators. After the blooming period, which can last until fall, seeds form and are either dispersed by wind or wildlife or harvested for propagation. The plant then becomes dormant in winter, with established plants resuming growth the following spring, continuing this perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Echinacea 'Mama Mia', commonly known as coneflower, is typically propagated by division, which is generally carried out in the spring or autumn. The most popular method is through division of the root ball, ensuring that each section has part of the root system attached. The plant should be taken out of the ground and using a sharp knife or garden spade, the root ball should be carefully split into smaller sections. Each section should then be replanted into well-prepared soil, maintaining the same depth they were previously growing. Water immediately after planting to help establish the divisions. It's important to note that Echinacea 'Mama Mia' is a protected plant variety (as indicated by PBR—Plant Breeders' Rights), so unauthorized commercial propagation may be illegal.
