Purple Coneflower Echinacea purpurea 'Fatal Attraction' (PBR)
ABOUT
Echinacea purpurea 'Fatal Attraction', commonly known as the purple coneflower, is a striking perennial plant recognized for its distinctive flower heads. The flowers are characteristically vibrant pink to purple in color, with a prominent, conical central disc that is dark red to almost black, giving the plant a dramatic appearance. These cone-like centers are surrounded by a ring of reflexed petals that droop downwards as they mature, resembling a shuttlecock. The petals themselves are typically rich in color, drawing the eye and providing a stark contrast to the dark central cone. The foliage of 'Fatal Attraction' is a deep green, which sets off the brilliance of the flowers. Each leaf is broadly lance-shaped with a rough texture that is typical of the species. The stems are particularly strong and sturdy, often darkly pigmented, which adds to the visual interest and supports the bold flower heads. Blooming from mid-summer to early fall, the purple coneflower attracts a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and birds, which are especially fond of the seeds within the cones. As the season progresses, the central cones become more prominent, providing an architectural element to the garden with their texture and form as the petals eventually fade. The seed heads can persist into winter, offering a sculptural aspect to the landscape even in the colder months. In addition to its ornamental features, the purple coneflower is also noted for its herbal properties and is commonly used in traditional medicine. However, the aesthetic appeal of 'Fatal Attraction' makes it a favorite among gardeners, who appreciate its vivid coloration, robust nature, and ability to bring life to the garden with its magnetism for wildlife.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Purple Coneflower, Eastern Purple Coneflower, Fatal Attraction Coneflower
Common names
Echinacea purpurea 'Fatal Attraction' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Echinacea, commonly known as the coneflower, including the 'Fatal Attraction' variety, is not typically toxic to humans. In fact, Echinacea is commonly used in herbal remedies for its potential immune-boosting properties. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or stomach upset if they ingest parts of the plant, particularly if they take large amounts or have an existing allergy to other plants in the daisy family.
To pets
The coneflower, like the 'Fatal Attraction' variety, is generally considered to be non-toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. It is not known to cause serious poisoning if ingested. However, as with many plants, ingestion can potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals. If a pet consumes a large quantity of the plant, symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea may occur. If any adverse reactions are noted, pet owners should consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet 24 inches (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet 24 inches (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Echinacea 'Fatal Attraction' is known for attracting bees and butterflies, promoting pollination in your garden.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is quite drought-resistant, requiring minimal watering and making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping.
- Easy Care: This plant is relatively low maintenance, requiring only basic care to thrive, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels.
- Long Blooming Season: The plant has a long flowering period that typically lasts from early summer to fall, providing continuous color and interest in the garden.
- Cut Flower: The flowers make excellent cut blooms for vases and arrangements, with long stems and vibrant colors.
- Deer Resistant: Echinacea 'Fatal Attraction' is not a preferred food source for deer, making it a good choice for areas with deer pressure.
Medical Properties- Immune system support: Echinacea is commonly used for its potential to bolster the immune system.
- Common cold relief: It is traditionally employed to reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Echinacea has been researched for its anti-inflammatory effects.
- Wound healing: There is some evidence suggesting that Echinacea can be applied topically to assist in wound healing.
- Antioxidant effects: It contains compounds that are believed to have antioxidant properties.
- Antimicrobial activity: Echinacea has been studied for its potential antimicrobial activity against various pathogens.
- Upper respiratory infections: It’s often used to prevent or treat upper respiratory infections, though clinical results are mixed.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect Attraction: Echinacea flowers can be used to attract butterflies and other beneficial insects to the garden, serving as a natural pest control by encouraging biodiversity.
- Photography: The vibrant colors and striking appearance of Echinacea make them a favorite subject for garden photographers and artists.
- Companion Planting: Echinacea can be planted alongside other flowers to support a thriving garden ecosystem, potentially improving the growth and health of nearby plants.
- Educational Tool: Echinacea can be used in educational settings to teach about plant life cycles, pollination, and the importance of native species in local habitats.
- Floral Arrangements: Fresh or dried Echinacea flowers are used in floral arrangements for their aesthetic appeal and long vase life.
- Wildlife Gardening: Echinacea provides food and habitat for wildlife, especially in gardens designed to mimic natural ecosystems.
- Dye Production: Historically, some parts of the Echinacea plant have been used to produce natural dyes for textiles.
- Culinary Uses: The blooms can be used to decorate dishes, although they are not often eaten for their flavor.
- Garden Themed Crafts: Echinacea flowers and seed heads can be used in making crafts such as wreaths or dried flower displays.
- Soil Erosion Control: Echinacea, with its deep roots, can be planted to help stabilize soil and control erosion in certain landscapes.
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: As a variety of Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, 'Fatal Attraction' symbolizes healing and health due to the plant's history of use in traditional medicine for boosting the immune system.
- Strength: The sturdy nature of the coneflower signifies strength and the ability to endure challenging conditions, embodying resilience.
- Attraction: Named 'Fatal Attraction', this specific variety hints at an irresistible charm and a magnetic allure, reflecting its vibrant color and unique appearance.
- Beauty: Coneflowers are often considered to symbolize beauty in its natural, unadulterated form, as they showcase wildflower aesthetics and grace gardens with their presence.
WaterPurple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea 'Fatal Attraction') prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root growth. Water the plant thoroughly, making sure the soil is evenly moist to a depth of about 1 inch. Depending on the climate and weather conditions, this generally means watering once or twice a week during hot, dry periods and reducing the frequency during cooler, wetter conditions. It's best to apply about 1 gallon of water per plant each time you water, ensuring the moisture reaches the root zone. Overwatering or letting the plant sit in water can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage and allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions.
LightThe purple coneflower thrives in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It's best placed in a spot where it can enjoy uninterrupted sunlight, as this will encourage robust growth and optimal flowering. Partial shade can be tolerated, but flowering may be less abundant, and the plant may become leggy as it reaches for light.
TemperaturePurple coneflower grows best in a temperate range and can withstand some extremes. The ideal temperature for promoting growth and flowering is between 65°F and 70°F. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -30°F and can handle summer highs up to around 85°F without stress. Extreme temperatures outside of these ranges can adversely affect the plant's health, so it's important to monitor during unusual cold snaps or heat waves.
PruningPurple coneflowers benefit from pruning to promote a tidy growth habit and encourage more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage additional blooming throughout the summer. In late winter or early spring, cut back the entire plant to ground level to help rejuvenate it and allow for healthy new growth. Pruning can also help control the size and shape of the plant, and it can prevent diseases by improving air circulation around the foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Purple Coneflower is well-drained, fertile, and loamy with a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 8.0. A mix of one part garden soil, one part compost or well-rotted manure, and one part coarse sand or perlite is ideal.
RepottingPurple Coneflowers are perennial plants that do not typically require frequent repotting. They should only be repotted if the plant outgrows its current container which is generally once every 2-3 years.
Humidity & MistingPurple Coneflower thrives in average outdoor humidity conditions; it does not require high humidity and is quite drought tolerant once established.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light, ensure good airflow.
Outdoor
Full sun, rich soil, spacing 18" for adequate airflow.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea purpurea 'Fatal Attraction' (also known as Purple Coneflower 'Fatal Attraction') begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in early to late spring when soil temperatures reach an optimal range of 70°F (21°C) to 75°F (24°C). Following germination, seedlings emerge and grow into young plants with characteristic dark green leaves. As the plant matures throughout the spring and early summer, it develops a strong central stem and a deep taproot system which enables it to tolerate periods of drought. By mid-summer, the plant starts producing its distinctive, vibrant pink-purple flowers with prominent, raised central cones that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. After pollination, these flowers develop into seed heads by late summer or fall, which disperse seeds for the next generation, or can be collected for propagation. Finally, the plant becomes dormant over the winter, with the roots surviving underground to produce new growth the following spring, completing the perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Late spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for Echinacea purpurea 'Fatal Attraction', commonly known as the Purple Coneflower, is by seed. The best time to sow seeds is in fall or late winter, which allows a period of stratification, the cold spell that seeds need to break dormancy. The seeds should be sown in pots or trays using well-drained soil, covered lightly with about 1/8 inch (approximately 3 millimeters) of soil. They require light to germinate, so the covering of soil should be very thin or the seeds can be gently pressed into the soil surface. Seedlings will usually appear in 10-20 days, but they can be erratic. It is critical to not let the soil dry out completely but also to avoid waterlogging. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots before being moved to their final position in the garden.
