Coneflower Echinacea 'Pink Shimmer'
ABOUT
Echinacea 'Pink Shimmer', commonly known as Coneflower, is a vibrant perennial plant that is recognized for its distinctive and striking flowers. These blooms feature a prominent, cone-shaped center that's typically bronze to dark brown, surrounded by a ring of daisy-like pink petals. The petals have a shimmering quality, starting out more intense in color at the base and gracefully lightening to softer pink, almost pastel-like edges. They are typically arranged in a single layer around the cone but may appear slightly reflexed, giving the appearance of a relaxed, informal posture. The foliage of the Coneflower is deep green, with leaves that are lanceolate to ovate in shape, featuring a textured surface with a slightly rough feel to the touch. These leaves are borne on sturdy, straight stems that give the plant a robust and upright demeanor. The overall look of the plant is one of hardiness and cheerfulness, as the flowers rise above the foliage and create a delightful contrast against the green backdrop. The rough-textured leaves and stems add further interest to the plant's appearance, providing a lush greenery that complements the vivid hues of the blooms. With its stunning flowers and resilient nature, the Coneflower 'Pink Shimmer' adds a splash of color and a spark of charm to any garden display, attracting pollinators such as butterflies and bees that further enhance its lively aesthetic. The blossoms of this Coneflower not only contribute visual appeal but can also be cut for arrangements, maintaining their beauty in vases as well as in the garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Coneflower, Purple Coneflower, Echinacea
Common names
There are no synonyms for the Echinacea 'Pink Shimmer'; its basic scientific name is provided, Echinacea 'Pink Shimmer'.
ToxicityTo humans
Coneflower, commonly referred to as Echinacea, is not generally considered to be toxic to humans. In fact, various species and parts of Echinacea are commonly used in herbal supplements for their purported immune-boosting benefits. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions, particularly if they are allergic to other plants in the Asteraceae family. Possible allergic symptoms could include rashes, itchy skin, or swelling. In some cases, if ingested in large quantities, coneflower might cause nausea, dizziness, or other digestive complaints, but these instances are relatively uncommon and typically associated with overconsumption of Echinacea supplements rather than the plant itself.
To pets
Coneflower, or Echinacea, is generally considered to be safe for pets, with no widespread reports of toxicity in domestic animals such as cats and dogs. While it is not common for pets to consume large quantities of this plant, if they do, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. However, serious toxicity is unlikely. As with humans, some individual pets might be allergic to coneflowers or other plants in the same family, so it's important to monitor for any signs of allergic reaction if they do ingest the plant, though these occurrences are rare.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
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 'Pink Shimmer' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, which help in the process of pollination.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is very tolerant of drought, making it a good choice for water-wise gardens.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance once established in the garden.
- Long Blooming: Echinacea 'Pink Shimmer' has a long blooming season, often from early summer to autumn, providing long-lasting color and interest.
- Deer Resistant: It is generally resistant to deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas where deer browsing is a problem.
- Ornamental Value: With its bright pink flowers and sturdy stems, Echinacea 'Pink Shimmer' adds aesthetic appeal to garden landscapes.
- Increase Biodiversity: By planting Echinacea 'Pink Shimmer', gardeners can contribute to increased biodiversity, offering habitat and food for various insects.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for arrangements, bringing the garden's beauty indoors.
Medical Properties- Immune system support: Echinacea is widely believed to stimulate the immune system, potentially reducing the duration and severity of colds and other infections.
- Anti-inflammatory: It is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties which could be beneficial in reducing inflammation related to various conditions.
- Antioxidant: Echinacea contains compounds with antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.
- Upper respiratory support: Historically, Echinacea has been used to provide support for the upper respiratory tract, especially in cases of common colds or flu.
- Wound healing: Topical applications of Echinacea have been used traditionally to help with wound healing and skin regeneration.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The roots and flowers of Echinacea can be used to produce natural dyes, with the roots offering a golden brown color and the flowers a light green.
- Floral Arrangements: Fresh or dried Echinacea flowers are often used in bouquets and floral arrangements due to their vibrant colors and conical flower heads.
- Garden Companion Planting: Echinacea plants can be used effectively in companion planting to attract beneficial insects such as pollinators to the garden.
- Photography Subject: The striking appearance of Echinacea flowers makes them a popular subject for nature and macro photography.
- Educational Tool: Echinacea plants are used in educational settings to teach botany and the importance of native plant species in ecosystem health.
- Arts and Crafts: The distinctive shape of Echinacea flower heads can inspire designs and patterns in arts and crafts, including textiles and embroidery.
- Culinary Garnish: Though not a traditional culinary use, Echinacea flowers can be used as an edible garnish to add color to salads and desserts.
- Animal Habitat: Echinacea plants provide habitat and food for wildlife, including birds who feed on the seeds and insects that seek nectar.
- Mood Enhancing Visuals: The bright and cheerful appearance of Echinacea flowers can be used to create a positive ambiance in living spaces and workplaces.
- Garden Structure: Echinacea’s sturdy stems and tall form can add structure and height variation in garden design and landscaping.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Coneflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Coneflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing and health: Echinacea is widely known for its purported immune-boosting properties, making it symbolic of overall wellness and recovery from illness.
- Strength and resilience: As a hardy plant that stands firm against various environmental stresses, Echinacea represents endurance and the ability to withstand hardships.
- Integrity and authenticity: The plant's upright posture and prominence in gardens can symbolize standing tall with honesty and remaining true to oneself.
WaterFor the Coneflower 'Pink Shimmer', water deeply to encourage root development and then allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. In the growing season, this typically means watering once a week with about one inch of water, or a gallon per square yard of soil, depending on soil type and weather conditions. During hot, dry periods, you may need to increase the frequency to twice a week, but always check the soil moisture first. Reducing watering as the plant goes dormant in late fall is recommended. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage and avoid letting the plant sit in waterlogged soil.
LightConeflower 'Pink Shimmer' thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The ideal location would receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day, which will encourage the most abundant blooms and sturdy plant growth. If the site receives less light, the plant may grow weaker and produce fewer flowers. Avoid deep shade areas, as these conditions are not conducive to the health of the Echinacea.
TemperatureConeflower 'Pink Shimmer' is hardy and can endure a range of temperatures, but it grows best when the temperature is between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit during its dormant winter phase. Conversely, it can handle summer highs up to around 85 degrees Fahrenheit without stress. Always plant in a location that avoids extreme temperature fluctuations for best performance.
PruningRegular pruning of the Coneflower 'Pink Shimmer' is necessary to maintain health and vigor, encourage new growth, and prolong the flowering period. Deadhead spent blooms throughout the growing season to promote further blooming. In late winter or early spring, cut back the entire plant to about 3 to 4 inches above the ground to prepare for new growth. Pruning at the right time helps prevent disease and can result in a stronger, more floriferous plant the following season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower 'Pink Shimmer' thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter and prefers a soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 8.0.
RepottingConeflower 'Pink Shimmer' should be repotted every 3-4 years or as needed when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingConeflower 'Pink Shimmer' is adaptable to a range of humidity levels and does not require high humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, well-draining soil; doesn’t need high humidity.
Outdoor
Full sun, good air circulation, well-drained soil; mulch for winter.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea 'Pink Shimmer', commonly known as Coneflower, begins its life as a seed that germinates in the soil when conditions of warmth and moisture are met, typically in the spring. The seedling emerges and develops true leaves, establishing itself and growing into a juvenile plant with strong roots and foliage. As it matures during its first or second growing season, it starts to produce distinctive pink flowers with a central cone that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. After flowering, the plant sets seeds in the late summer or fall, which are either dispersed by wind or animals, or may drop near the parent plant to potentially germinate the following season. Throughout the winter, Echinacea 'Pink Shimmer' may die back to the ground in colder climates, with its root system remaining dormant until the warmth of spring initiates new growth. This perennial plant can live for several years, following this annual cycle of growth, flowering, seed production, and dormancy.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Echinacea 'Pink Shimmer', commonly known as Coneflower, is by division. This is ideally done in the spring, as the plant is emerging from dormancy, or in the early fall, allowing time for roots to establish before the onset of winter. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established plant with a spade, ensuring a generous root ball is intact. Gently separate the plant into smaller clumps, each with a portion of the root system. Then, replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at previously, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish their roots in the garden.
