Purple Coneflower Echinacea purpurea 'Kim's Knee High' (PBR)
ABOUT
Echinacea purpurea 'Kim's Knee High', commonly known as purple coneflower, is an ornamental perennial with distinctive flower heads. The flowers are typically characterized by a domed, spiky central cone that is a rich, reddish-brown hue, surrounded by drooping, petal-like ray florets. These petals are bright purple to pinkish in color, adding a vibrant splash of color in garden settings. The plant has an upright habit with sturdy stems that bear lance-shaped, dark green leaves. The foliage is slightly rough in texture. The striking contrast between the bold, colorful flowers and the lush green leaves creates a visually appealing specimen in mixed borders or as part of a naturalized garden space. The purple coneflower blooms from early to late summer, attracting butterflies, bees, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden. The prominent seed heads which develop after flowering can also provide food for birds during the fall and winter months. The plant's tolerance for drought once established makes it a popular choice for xeriscaping and for gardeners looking for hardy, low-maintenance plants.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Coneflower, Kim's Knee High Coneflower, Purple Coneflower.
Common names
Echinacea purpurea 'Kim's Knee High' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Echinacea, generally, is not toxic to humans and is often used in herbal medicine for its potential immune-boosting properties. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or stomach upset if they have sensitivities or take large amounts. While it is commonly used in teas and supplements, it is advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with autoimmune diseases, or those on immunosuppressive medication to avoid the use of echinacea due to a lack of rigorous safety data.
To pets
Echinacea is not typically toxic to pets, either. It is sometimes used as a herbal remedy for animals, particularly dogs and cats, to boost their immune system. However, as with humans, some pets might experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest a large amount of the plant. If your pet has a known health condition or is on medication, it is best to consult your veterinarian before allowing them to ingest echinacea.
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 purpurea 'Kim's Knee High' is known for drawing in bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which can help pollinate other plants in the garden.
- Drought resistant: This plant is highly tolerant of dry conditions once established, reducing the need for frequent watering and making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Low maintenance: It requires minimal care other than occasional deadheading to promote additional blooms and to maintain its appearance.
- Long blooming period: 'Kim's Knee High' offers a prolonged flowering season from midsummer to early fall, providing extended color in the garden.
- Compact size: The 'Kim's Knee High' cultivar has a shorter stature, which makes it ideal for small gardens or the front of borders without overwhelming the space.
- Erosion control: With its sturdy stems and deep roots, it can help prevent soil erosion, especially in sloped areas of the garden.
- Winter interest: The dried seed heads can be left on the plant over the winter to provide visual interest and can also serve as food for birds.
Medical Properties- Immune system support: Echinacea is commonly used to support the immune system, especially for preventing and treating the common cold and flu.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: It may help reduce inflammation, potentially aiding in the relief of symptoms associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
- Antioxidant effects: Echinacea contains compounds with antioxidant properties which may help protect cells from damage by free radicals.
- Wound healing: It is believed to promote skin healing and may be applied to wounds to help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
- Antimicrobial activity: Some studies suggest that Echinacea has antimicrobial properties that could be beneficial in fighting various microbes.
- Analgesic effects: The plant might have mild pain-relieving properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Echinacea purpurea 'Kim's Knee High' can be used as a natural dye to impart colors onto fabrics, wool, or paper, producing shades that tend to be light brown or greenish-yellow dependent on the mordant used.
- Gardeners may use the seed heads of this plant to provide winter interest in the garden, as they stand tall and retain their shape even after the blooming season.
- The strong stems of Echinacea purpurea can be used in flower arranging to add height and texture to bouquets and floral decorations.
- Many people plant Echinacea purpurea as a companion plant to help attract beneficial insects, like bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination in the garden.
- The dried flower heads can be incorporated into homemade potpourris to add a rustic aesthetic to your home décor.
- Fresh or dried Echinacea purpurea petals can be used to infuse oils or vinegar, adding a unique floral essence suitable for experimental culinary purposes.
- The silhouette of the Echinacea purpurea flower can inspire artists and be used in botanical illustrations or as motifs in various art forms.
- The plant’s fibrous root system can help prevent soil erosion in garden areas that are prone to washing out with heavy rains.
- As a wildlife gardening plant, Echinacea purpurea can serve as a food source for songbirds like finches that feed on the seeds in late fall and winter.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Kim's Knee High' can be used in natural or wildlife photography settings, providing a vibrant subject matter during the blooming season.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Purple Coneflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Purple Coneflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as Purple Coneflower, is well-known for its medicinal properties, especially for boosting the immune system and fighting off infections.
- Strength: The robust nature of the Purple Coneflower, able to stand tall and thrive in various conditions, symbolizes physical strength and resilience.
- Integrity: With its upright stems that don’t easily droop, the Purple Coneflower represents moral fortitude and a strong character.
- Purity: The bright, typically purple flowers are often associated with cleanliness, purity, and the natural state of being unblemished.
- Resourcefulness: Purple Coneflower is admired for its versatility, as both an ornamental plant and in herbal remedies, representing an ability to adapt and make use of available resources.
WaterPurple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea 'Kim's Knee High') should be watered deeply to encourage deep root growth, which can be achieved by providing about 1 inch of water once a week. It’s crucial to let the soil dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not soggy. Generally, watering with approximately 0.6 gallons per square yard every week should be sufficient, adjusting as necessary for rainfall and temperature conditions.
LightPurple Coneflower thrives in full sunlight, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light each day. The plant performs best in a spot where it's exposed to morning light and continued sun throughout the day. An area with partial shade can also be tolerated, especially in regions with extremely hot summers, but full sun is ideal for robust growth and best flower production.
TemperaturePurple Coneflower is hardy and can withstand a broad range of temperatures, typically enduring winter lows down to -30°F and summer highs well into the 90s°F. The ideal growing temperature for 'Kim's Knee High' is between 70°F and 85°F during the day. They are robust and can tolerate less ideal conditions once established.
PruningPruning Purple Coneflower is primarily done to deadhead spent flowers, which encourages further blooming and prevents self-seeding if not desired. Pruning can be performed throughout the blooming season, whenever flowers fade. In early spring or late fall, cutting back the stems to about 3 inches above the ground helps maintain a tidy appearance and can rejuvenate the plant for the next growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower 'Kim's Knee High' thrives in well-draining loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and a bit of sand or perlite to aid drainage is ideal for this plant. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter to support its growth.
RepottingConeflower 'Kim's Knee High' is typically grown outdoors and does not require regular repotting. In a garden setting, dividing the plant every 3-4 years to maintain vigor is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingConeflower 'Kim's Knee High' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements. It can thrive in the humidity levels typically found in outdoor garden environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, with some direct sun, and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, and moderate water.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea purpurea 'Kim's Knee High', commonly known as "Kim's Knee High Coneflower", begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in the spring when soil temperatures are warm enough for root and shoot development. Upon germination, the seedling grows, developing true leaves and establishing a small root system. As the plant matures, it forms a robust, deep-rooted clump with strong stems and a profusion of daisy-like purple-pink flowers, typically peaking in the midsummer. After blooming, the flowers produce seeds that attract birds, especially finches, which helps in the natural dispersal of seeds. As temperatures drop in late fall, 'Kim's Knee High' will experience senescence, with aerial parts dying back while the roots remain dormant through the winter. With the return of warm weather in the following spring, the plant will rejuvenate from the surviving rootstock, completing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The most popular method of propagation for Echinacea purpurea 'Kim's Knee High', commonly known as the Dwarf Purple Coneflower, is by seed. Sowing should ideally be done in the late winter to early spring, after the last frost has passed. Seeds need to be lightly covered with soil as they require darkness to germinate. It is essential to maintain a moist environment but not waterlogged, and the ideal germination temperature is about 70°F (21°C). Seedlings will typically emerge in 10 to 20 days. Once the seedlings have developed a couple of sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted to their final location, ensuring they are spaced approximately 1 to 1.5 feet apart (30 to 45 centimeters) to accommodate for their mature size.
