Coneflower Echinacea Mooodz Sympathy = 'Hilmoosymp' (Mooodz Series)
![coneflower [Mooodz Sympathy]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b55db03b4f.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
Echinacea Moody Sympathy, part of the Mooodz series, presents a visually striking appearance. This plant, commonly known as coneflower, features a robust and sturdy form. At its core, the coneflower typically boasts prominent, cone-shaped centers that are surrounded by an array of petal-like structures often referred to as rays. These rays splay outwards from the center, similar to the structure of a daisy, with a gentle droop that gives the flower a relaxed and graceful demeanor. The Moody Sympathy coneflower distinguishes itself with its unique coloration. The petals emit a warm, inviting hue, usually exhibiting shades that can range from soft pastels to more intense and vivid colors. The tones can be a spectacular display of the plant's breeding, perhaps featuring gradients or a wash of color that transitions across each petal. The foliage of the Echinacea Moody Sympathy is typically deep green, forming a lush backdrop to the vibrant flowers. Leaves are often lance-shaped, with a slightly toothed edge, and they attach to the stem at alternating intervals, providing a full and bushy appearance overall. As a perennial, its foliage can provide a lasting presence in the garden, contributing to the plant's overall visual appeal even when not in bloom. The coneflower's central cone is not only a focal point for its beauty but also attracts a variety of pollinators. It often appears rough in texture and may have a color that contrasts with or complements the petals, ranging from dark browns to more vibrant shades depending on the variety. Overall, the physical charm of the Echinacea Moody Sympathy lies within its balanced and compelling combination of color, form, and texture, creating an appealing and aesthetically pleasing addition to any space that fulfills its growing conditions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Coneflower, Echinacea.
Common names
Echinacea Mooodz Sympathy = 'Hilmoosymp'
ToxicityTo humans
The Echinacea plant, commonly known as coneflower, is generally regarded as safe for humans. It is commonly used in herbal supplements for its potential immune-boosting properties. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or gastrointestinal upset if they are sensitive to the plant or ingest it in large amounts. It is not considered toxic and there are no severe poisoning symptoms associated with Echinacea.
To pets
The Echinacea plant, or coneflower, is also generally considered safe for pets. It is not known to be toxic to cats or dogs. However, as with humans, some pets may exhibit mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea if they consume large quantities of the plant. Serious poisoning is not typically associated with the ingestion of Echinacea by pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1 foot 4 inches (40 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Echinacea attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which can help pollinate surrounding plants.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Echinacea is known for its ability to withstand periods of drought, making it a water-wise choice for gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Echinacea plants are generally low maintenance, requiring minimal care once they are established in the right conditions.
- Long Blooming Season: Echinacea has a long flowering season, from early summer to fall, providing a continuous display of color.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its vibrant blooms and stately presence, Echinacea can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Adaptable to Various Soil Types: Echinacea can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, from clay to sandy soils, as long they have good drainage.
- Resistant to Deer and Rabbits: Echinacea is not a preferred food source for deer and rabbits, which can help protect the plant from garden pests.
- Easy to Propagate: Echinacea is relatively easy to propagate by division, allowing gardeners to expand their plantings without additional cost.
- Cold Hardy: Echinacea is cold-hardy and can tolerate frost, making it suitable for cultivation in a wide range of climates.
- Supports Biodiversity: By providing food and habitat for insects, Echinacea can play a role in supporting local biodiversity.
Medical Properties- Immune system support: Echinacea is traditionally used to support immune system health.
- Cold and flu prevention: It is commonly used in an effort to prevent or lessen the symptoms of the common cold and flu.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Echinacea may have anti-inflammatory effects which can be beneficial in reducing symptoms of inflammation.
- Antioxidant activity: The plant contains compounds that are believed to have antioxidant properties.
- Antimicrobial properties: Echinacea is thought to possess antimicrobial properties which may help defend against bacterial and viral infections.
- Wound healing: Echinacea has been used topically in some cultures to aid in wound healing due to its potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Arrangements - Echinacea flowers can be used in both fresh and dried floral arrangements due to their vibrant colors and robust stems.
- Natural Dyes - The petals of Echinacea can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, yielding various shades of pinks, greens and browns.
- Garden Companion Planting - Echinacea plants can be used in companion planting to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which benefits the entire garden.
- Photography Subject - With their striking appearance, Echinacea flowers are a popular subject for photographers looking to capture the beauty of nature.
- Edible Landscaping - Echinacea is not only aesthetically pleasing but also edible, with its flowers and leaves adding visual appeal to edible gardens.
- Creative Crafts - The cones and petals of Echinacea can be used in arts and crafts, such as making natural potpourri or floral-themed artwork.
- Symbolic Gifts - Echinacea plants can be gifted as a symbol of health and strength, despite excluding their medical properties from this context.
- Wildlife Habitat - Echinacea plants provide a habitat and food source for beneficial insects and small animals in the garden.
- Soil Improvement - When left to decompose, the stalks and foliage of Echinacea can help improve soil structure and fertility.
- Seasonal Decorations - Echinacea seed heads, with their unique spiny appearance, can be used in fall and winter decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiEchinacea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityEchinacea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing and Health: Echinacea, also known as coneflower, is renowned for its medicinal properties, symbolizing physical and emotional healing.
- Strength and Immunity: The coneflower's reputation for boosting the immune system is reflected in its symbolism of strength and resilience against illness.
- Integrity and Resourcefulness: Native to North America and used by indigenous tribes, the coneflower signifies deep integrity and the resourceful use of natural remedies.
WaterConeflowers should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; once established, they are quite drought-tolerant. During the growing season, water them with about 1 inch of water per week, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. If it's particularly hot or dry, or if your plants are newly planted and not yet established, you might need to water twice a week. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases and instead water at the base of the plant. During the winter or in cooler weather, reduce watering as the plant's water requirements decrease.
LightConeflowers prefer full sunlight to thrive. The ideal location for Echinacea Mooodz Sympathy would be a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate some light shade, particularly in the afternoon during the hottest part of the day, but too much shade may result in weak stems and poor blooming.
TemperatureConeflowers are resilient and can handle a range of temperatures; they flourish best when the temperature is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit, although prolonged exposure to extremes can be harmful. Ensure proper mulching to help the roots stay cool in summer and insulated during cold winters.
PruningPruning coneflowers can help maintain their shape, encourage bushiness, and promote more vigorous blooming. Deadhead spent flowers to extend blooming and cut back the plants to about a third of their height after the first killing frost in fall. Occasionally, they may be pruned in spring to remove any dead or damaged stems. Coneflowers can also be cut back in late winter to early spring to encourage fresh growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower (Echinacea) 'Hilmoosymp' thrives in well-draining, loamy soil enriched with compost. The ideal pH for this Echinacea should range between 6.0 and 7.0, slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingConeflowers (Echinacea) typically do not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every few years as they are relatively tolerant of being root-bound.
Humidity & MistingConeflower (Echinacea) is not particularly humidity-sensitive and will do well in average garden humidity levels; they are adaptable to both dry and moderate humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, allow for air circulation.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea, commonly known as coneflower, begins its life as a seed which, when sown and exposed to the appropriate temperature conditions, will germinate and sprout into a seedling. The seedling stage is marked by the emergence of the plant's first true leaves, after which it enters a period of vegetative growth, developing a robust root system and foliage. As the plant matures, it undergoes the flowering stage, where buds form and bloom into the distinct, daisy-like flowers that Echinacea is known for. The blooming phase can last for several weeks to months, during which the plant attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed heads, containing seeds that will disseminate, ensuring the continuation of the plant's lifecycle. Finally, as a perennial, Echinacea will enter a dormant phase in the winter, with its above-ground parts dying back, to re-emerge in the next growing season from its established rootstock.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The Echinacea, commonly known as the coneflower, is a perennial plant that can be propagated mainly through seed sowing. The best time to sow Echinacea seeds is after the danger of frost has passed in the spring or in autumn before the ground freezes. As a cultivar, Echinacea 'Hilmoosymp' seeds may be sown directly into the ground or started indoors in seed trays with well-draining soil. To encourage germination, seeds need to be lightly covered with soil and kept moist. Indoor-sown seeds should be stratified, which means placing the seeded trays in a refrigerator at about 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.4 degrees Celsius) for several weeks before moving them into a warmer environment to trigger germination. Once seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves and are sturdy enough, they can be carefully transplanted to their final growing location. This process allows for a larger number of plants and genetic diversity within the new plants.
