Coneflower Echinacea Sombrero Salsa Red = 'Balsomsed' (PBR) (Sombrero Series)
![coneflower [Sombrero Salsa Red]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b5a760e113.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
The Echinacea Sombrero Salsa Red, often referred to simply as 'Salsa Red', is a striking perennial known for its vibrant flower color. This plant features a bold display of intense red blossoms that stand out in any garden setting. Each flower has a prominent, cone-shaped central disc that is typically orange-brown, creating a striking contrast with the red petals. The petals themselves are broad, slightly reflexed, and overlap one another, forming a single, daisy-like flower head at the top of each stem. These vivid flower heads are a haven for pollinators, attracting butterflies and bees in search of nectar. The leaves of the plant are dark green, lance-shaped, and contribute to the overall lush appearance of the foliage. The plant's sturdy stems hold the flowers well above the foliage, making the bright red blooms a focal point. Throughout its blooming season, 'Salsa Red' provides a continuous show of color that adds warmth and texture to any garden landscape.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Sombrero Salsa Red Coneflower, Salsa Red Echinacea
Common names
Echinacea Sombrero Salsa Red = 'Balsomsed' (PBR) (Sombrero Series).
ToxicityTo humans
Echinacea is not considered poisonous to humans. In fact, various species of Echinacea, also known as coneflower, are widely used for medicinal purposes, believed to boost the immune system and reduce symptoms of colds and other infections. However, it's important to note that some individuals might experience allergic reactions if they are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family. Overconsumption may lead to gastrointestinal issues, nausea, dizziness, or headache. Always consult a healthcare provider before using coneflower as a supplement, especially if you have an existing medical condition or are pregnant.
To pets
Coneflower is not typically toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe for dogs and cats, and is not commonly associated with poisoning in these animals. However, individual animals may have unique sensitivities or allergic reactions, so it's always best to monitor your pet and keep ornamental plants out of their reach. If pets consume large quantities, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, but serious toxicity is rare. If you suspect your pet is having an adverse reaction to any plant, contact your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-2 feet [30-60 cm]
Spread
1-2 feet [30-60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The brightly colored flowers of the Echinacea Sombrero Salsa Red attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering once established, making it ideal for gardeners looking for low-maintenance options.
- Long Blooming Period: It has a long flowering season, typically from mid-summer to fall, providing vibrant colors in the garden for an extended period.
- Hardy Plant: The Echinacea Sombrero Salsa Red is known for its hardiness and can withstand cold winters, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
- Resistant to Deer: The plant is generally resistant to deer, which can be beneficial in areas where deer browsing is a problem for gardens.
- Landscape Versatility: This variety can be used in a range of landscaping designs, from border plantings to container gardening, adding versatility to garden planning.
Medical Properties- Immune System Support: Echinacea is traditionally used to help boost the immune system.
- Common Cold and Flu: It is commonly used to reduce the symptoms and duration of the common cold and flu.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Echinacea has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Wound Healing: Applied topically, Echinacea can be used to help heal wounds and skin conditions due to its antimicrobial properties.
- Antioxidant Activity: Echinacea contains compounds that are believed to have antioxidant properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural Fabric Dye: The petals of Echinacea can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics, providing a spectrum of pink and coral hues.
- Garden Art: Deadheading spent blooms is typical, but leaving some can add an artistic, architectural element to gardens during the winter.
- Photography Subject: Their vivid color and bold form make Echinacea a popular subject for photographers, especially close-up macro photography.
- Frost Tolerance Indicator: Echinacea is relatively frost hardy, so they can help gardeners gauge the impact of early or late frosts on other less hardy plants.
- Educational Tool: These plants can be used to teach children and students about pollination and the life cycle of plants.
- Floral Craft: Echinacea flowers can be dried and used in floral arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects.
- Bioindicator Species: The presence and health of Echinacea in an area can indicate the quality of the soil and the local ecosystem’s balance.
- Petal Confetti: Dried Echinacea petals can be used as biodegradable confetti for outdoor celebrations.
- Companion Planting: Echinacea can be strategically planted to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to gardens, supporting the pollination of nearby food crops.
- Landscape Design: Beyond their use in borders, Echinacea varieties add height, color, and texture to modern landscape design, functioning as living sculptures.
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: Echinacea plants are known for their potential immune-boosting properties, thus the Sombrero Salsa Red is often associated with health and the ability to ward off ailments.
- Strength: The robust nature of the plant, capable of withstanding tough conditions, symbolizes strength and endurance.
- Resourcefulness: Given its use in herbal remedies, echinacea stands for resourcefulness and the use of natural resources to maintain well-being.
- Purity: The bright and clear colors of this Echinacea's flowers are often linked to the concept of purity and cleanliness.
- Beauty: Echinacea Sombrero Salsa Red is admired for its vibrant red petals, representing beauty and admiration in the natural world.
WaterConeflower 'Sombrero Salsa Red' should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. During the growing season, provide about 1 gallon of water per plant for each watering session. In periods of extreme heat or drought, increase watering frequency to twice a week, but always check the soil moisture beforehand. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant prepares for dormancy, and in winter, water sparingly, only if the soil is very dry, as the plant's water needs decrease significantly during this time.
LightConeflower 'Sombrero Salsa Red' thrives in full sun, meaning it requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth. The best spot for this plant is in a location where it can receive unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. Although it can tolerate some light shade, too much shade can lead to fewer blooms and a weaker, less vigorous plant.
TemperatureConeflower 'Sombrero Salsa Red' prefers warm conditions and can tolerate temperature extremes from about -30°F to 85°F. The ideal growing temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F, which promotes healthy growth and abundant flowering. While the plant is hardy and can survive winter chill, prolonged temperatures below its minimum threshold can be harmful, especially if the plant is not well-established or mulched properly.
PruningPruning Coneflower 'Sombrero Salsa Red' is important to promote bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the blooming season to encourage continuous flowering. In late winter or early spring, cut back the entire plant to about 4 inches to stimulate new growth, as coneflowers are herbaceous perennials that benefit from yearly pruning. Old foliage can also be removed in the fall to tidy up the plant and reduce the risk of disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower 'Sombrero Salsa Red' thrives in well-draining soil enriched with compost or other organic matter. A soil pH range between 6.0 and 8.0 is suitable for this plant, with a slight preference for neutral to alkaline conditions. Ensuring good drainage is key; avoid heavy clay that retains water, as this can cause root rot.
RepottingConeflowers, including the 'Sombrero Salsa Red', are typically perennials that are planted directly into the garden and do not require frequent repotting. However, if grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its current pot, using fresh soil mix to replenish nutrients.
Humidity & MistingConeflower 'Sombrero Salsa Red' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements, making it adaptable to various outdoor conditions. It performs well in typical garden environments without needing additional humidity control.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light with some direct sun.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, space 18-24 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea Sombrero Salsa Red germinates from seed, with sprouts emerging in early spring. The seedlings grow into rosettes of lanceolate leaves at ground level before developing upright stems. By late spring to early summer, stems elongate and produce vibrant red, daisy-like flowers with prominent cones, attracting pollinators. After blooming, the plants set seeds in late summer or autumn, which can be dispersed by wind or animals, perpetuating the life cycle. Throughout the winter, the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, to re-emerge the following spring if it is a perennial in that region. Overtime, established clumps may be divided and replanted to propagate and maintain vigor.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Echinacea Sombrero Salsa Red, commonly known as coneflower, is through division. Division is typically done in the spring or fall when the plant is not in peak bloom. Carefully dig up the entire plant, keeping as much of the root system intact as possible. Using a sharp spade or knife, divide the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a portion of the root system attached. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at previously, spacing them approximately 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new plants thoroughly to help establish them. This method is effective because it helps rejuvenate older clumps that may have become too dense, improving their health and vigor.
