Yellow Spider Coneflower Echinacea 'Yellow Spider'
ABOUT
Echinacea 'Yellow Spider' is a striking perennial known for its unique flower form and vibrant color. This variety of coneflower boasts eye-catching blooms that are characterized by an array of long, narrow petals that radiate from a central cone, giving the appearance of a spider. The petals are a bright, sunny yellow that can enliven any garden setting. These petals droop gracefully down from the central cone, which is typically a richer, more golden-yellow hue, often with a greenish center as they start to form. The center cone is prominent and somewhat spiky, adding texture and visual interest to the flower head. The overall effect of 'Yellow Spider' is a showy display which contrasts beautifully with its dark green foliage. The leaves are lance-shaped with rough edges and are arranged alternately on sturdy stems, which complements the boldness of the flowers. This plant is a favorite among gardeners not only for its beauty but also for its ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies while also being resistant to deer.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Yellow Spider Coneflower, Yellow Spider Echinacea
Common names
Echinacea paradoxa var. neglecta, Rudbeckia paradoxa.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as Echinacea 'Yellow Spider', more commonly referred to as coneflower, is generally recognized as safe for human consumption. Native Americans have traditionally used Echinacea for various health conditions, and today it is commonly used in herbal remedies believed to support the immune system. There are no well-documented cases of toxicity in humans from ingesting coneflowers. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions, particularly those who are allergic to other plants in the daisy family. Symptoms of an allergic reaction could include rash, itchiness, and possibly more severe symptoms if one has a significant allergy. As with any plant or supplement, it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before using Echinacea in a medicinal capacity.
To pets
Echinacea 'Yellow Spider', commonly known as coneflower, is not considered toxic to pets. It is often used in small quantities as a supplement in pet foods or treats for its purported immune-boosting properties. While it is generally safe, each pet may react differently, and some may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume too much. These symptoms may include vomiting or diarrhea, but serious toxicity is unlikely. Nonetheless, it is always wise to monitor your pet's response to any new food or supplement and consult your veterinarian if you observe adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Echinacea 'Yellow Spider' attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Drought tolerant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
- Long blooming period: The plant produces flowers throughout the summer months, providing long-lasting visual appeal.
- Low maintenance: It requires minimal care once established, with no need for regular watering or fertilizing.
- Deer resistant: Typically, deer don’t prefer eating Echinacea, which can help in gardens where deer are a problem.
- Improves biodiversity: As a native plant in some areas, it can help maintain or improve the local ecosystem when planted in your garden.
- Landscape versatility: Can be used in a variety of garden designs including borders, wildflower meadows, and as a focal point in garden beds.
- Soil adaptable: It is capable of thriving in a range of soil types, from clay to sandy soils, as long as they are well-draining.
Medical Properties- Immune System Support: Echinacea is commonly believed to stimulate the immune system and is often used to potentially ward off or reduce the severity of cold symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: May possess properties that can reduce inflammation, which is beneficial in treating conditions such as sore throat or skin inflammation.
- Antioxidant Properties: Echinacea contains compounds like flavonoids that have antioxidant effects, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Antimicrobial Activity: Thought to have antimicrobial properties that could help fight against various bacteria and viruses.
- Wound Healing: Some traditional uses include promoting wound healing due to its possible anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Echinacea can be planted to attract and support populations of beneficial insects, such as butterflies and bees, due to its nectar-rich flowers.
- As a companion plant in the vegetable garden, Echinacea may help deter pests from more delicate crops with its strong presence and robust root system.
- The sturdy stems of Echinacea can be used in floral arrangements, providing an unusual, spiky texture and bright color that lasts well in vases.
- Echinacea flowers can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding shades of yellow, green, or brown depending on the mordant used.
- The dried seed heads of Echinacea can be kept for winter interest in the garden or used in dried flower arrangements for their unique visual appeal.
- Gardeners may use Echinacea as a visual marker to indicate the seasonal progression in their gardens, observing its blooms as indicators of mid to late summer.
- Echinacea seed heads can be left in place to provide food for birds, particularly finches, who eat the seeds throughout fall and winter.
- The roots of Echinacea can be used in permaculture practices for soil stabilization, particularly on slopes or areas prone to erosion.
- Echinacea plants can serve as a learning tool for educational gardens, illustrating plant growth, pollination, and the lifecycle of perennial borders.
- Photographers and artists may use Echinacea 'Yellow Spider' as a striking subject matter due to its vibrant color and unique floral structure.
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 Immunity: As a variety of Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, 'Yellow Spider' is often associated with health and healing due to the plant's historical use in herbal medicine to bolster the immune system.
- Strength and Resilience: Coneflowers are hardy plants capable of withstanding tough conditions. The 'Yellow Spider' variety symbolizes strength and the ability to endure challenging situations.
- Beauty: The unique appearance of the 'Yellow Spider' with its bright yellow petals symbolizes beauty and attraction, appreciating the diversity and splendor of nature's creations.
- Purity: The color yellow often signifies purity and truth, and when associated with the 'Yellow Spider' Echinacea, it emphasizes a sense of clarity and sincerity.
WaterConeflower 'Yellow Spider' should be watered deeply and infrequently to encourage a strong root system. It's best to water when the top inch of soil feels dry, which could translate to about once a week, although this can vary depending on climate and soil type. Provide approximately one inch of water each time, which is roughly 0.623 gallons per square foot. During particularly hot or dry spells, you may need to water more frequently. Always avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of foliar diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant.
LightConeflower 'Yellow Spider' thrives in full sun, which means it requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The best spot for planting would be in an unobstructed location where it can receive ample morning light and some afternoon sun as well. Though it can tolerate partial shade, the plant will produce more blooms and have stronger stems if provided with full sun exposure.
TemperatureConeflower 'Yellow Spider' performs best in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. It can withstand higher temperatures provided it has adequate moisture. The plant is winter hardy in temperatures as low as -30°F and can manage summer heat up to about 85°F to 90°F. It's essential to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations for optimum growth.
PruningConeflower 'Yellow Spider' should be pruned to remove spent flowers, which encourages additional blooming, and to maintain plant shape and health. Deadheading, or cutting off the faded flowers, can be done throughout the blooming season. In late winter or early spring, cut back the plants to about 4 inches above the ground to prepare for new growth. Pruning is also an opportunity to thin out any overcrowded areas to increase air circulation.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Coneflower 'Yellow Spider' is well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mixture of garden soil, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite promotes healthy growth.
RepottingConeflower 'Yellow Spider' typically doesn't require frequent repotting. Repotting every 3 to 4 years is sufficient unless the plant outgrows its container or shows signs of declining health.
Humidity & MistingConeflower 'Yellow Spider' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and does not require any special humidity adjustments. It thrives in outdoor environments where the humidity varies naturally.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-drained soil, and limit watering.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil; Watch for overwatering.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Echinacea 'Yellow Spider', commonly known as Yellow Coneflower, begins its life cycle as a dormant seed, which, under the right conditions of warmth and moisture, germinates and sprouts into a seedling. The seedling then develops into a vegetative plant, producing a rosette of leaves in its first year, with roots establishing themselves firmly in the soil. In subsequent years, it enters a phase of maturity where the stalks elongate, and the plant bears distinctive yellow, daisy-like flowers with raised central cones, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds that mature as the flower heads dry out in late summer to autumn. These seeds are either dispersed by wind or fall to the ground to initiate a new life cycle or may be collected for cultivation. In winter, the Yellow Coneflower becomes dormant, with the top growth dying back and the plant surviving through its roots, ready to regrow in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Winter - Early Spring
Echinacea 'Yellow Spider', commonly known as Coneflower, is best propagated by seed, which can be sown in the fall or early spring. To propagate by seeds, prepare a well-drained seed-starting mix in a flat or container. Scatter the seeds on top of the mix and lightly press them into the surface, but do not cover them completely as they require light for germination. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and at a consistent temperature of about 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 18 to 21 degrees Celsius). Seeds will usually germinate in 10 to 20 days. Once the seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots before being moved outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.
