Purple coneflower Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus'
ABOUT
Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus', commonly known as the purple coneflower 'Magnus', is a striking perennial known for its distinctive and large daisy-like flowers. The blooms are characterized by vivid purple-pink petals that radiate from a central cone. These petals are horizontal, rather than drooping like the common purple coneflower, giving the flower a more pronounced, flat appearance. The bold, dark orange to brown central cone is raised and prominent, adding to its appeal and drawing the attention of various pollinators. The leaves are dark green, coarse, and lance-shaped, providing a lush backdrop for the colorful blossoms. The plant has a sturdy upright habit with strong stems that hold the flowers aloft above the foliage. The blossoming period spans the warmer months, offering a generous display of color and texture in the garden.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Eastern Purple Coneflower, Purple Coneflower, Magnus Coneflower
Common names
Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus'.
ToxicityTo humans
Coneflower is generally recognized as safe for human consumption in moderate amounts. This plant is commonly used in herbal medicine, most often as an immune system booster. There are no significant toxic effects known for this plant when it is used appropriately. However, as with any plant or herbal supplement, ingesting cone flower in excessive amounts could potentially lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, or allergic reactions in individuals who are sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal supplements, especially if you have allergies, are pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition.
To pets
Coneflower is not considered toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. This plant is often seen in gardens and its ingestion by pets usually does not lead to toxicity. However, while it is not inherently poisonous, individual pets might have sensitivity or allergic reactions, which could manifest as mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. If a pet ingests a large amount of any plant, including coneflower, monitoring for any signs of distress is a good precaution and a veterinarian should be consulted if any adverse symptoms are observed.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
1.5-2 feet (0.45-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' is known for its ability to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to your garden, which can help pollinate other plants.
- Drought resistant: Once established, this plant is quite resilient to dry conditions, making it ideal for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
- Low maintenance: It does not require much care, it's disease-resistant and rarely needs fertilizer, making it a good choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Long blooming period: The 'Magnus' has a long flowering season that can last from early summer to autumn, adding color to your garden for an extended period.
- Supports biodiversity: By providing nectar and habitat, it fosters a diverse ecosystem in your garden, supporting insects and birds.
- Landscape versatility: With its vivid flowers and tall, sturdy stems, 'Magnus' is suitable for a variety of garden designs, from borders to wildflower gardens.
- Cut flower use: The large, eye-catching blooms are excellent for cutting and using in floral arrangements.
- Deer resistance: Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' is not a preferred food source for deer, making it a great option for gardens in areas with a large deer population.
Medical Properties- Immune System Support: Echinacea is widely believed to stimulate the immune system, potentially reducing the duration and severity of colds and other upper respiratory infections.
- Anti-inflammatory: It may have anti-inflammatory effects, which could be beneficial in reducing symptoms associated with various inflammatory conditions.
- Antioxidant: Echinacea contains compounds with antioxidant properties, which may help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.
- Antiviral Properties: Some studies suggest Echinacea has antiviral activities against certain herpes and influenza viruses.
- Wound Healing: Topical application of Echinacea extracts might be used to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation on the skin.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Garden Border Accent: 'Magnus' is often used to create visually striking garden borders due to its height and vibrant purple flowers.
- Companion Planting: This variety can be planted alongside vegetables like tomatoes to attract pollinators and improve yields.
- Cut Flower Production: The large, showy flowers of 'Magnus' are popular in the cut flower industry for making bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Natural Fabric Dye: The deep purple petals can be used to create a natural dye for coloring fabrics.
- Butterfly Attraction: Echinacea 'Magnus' acts as a magnet for butterflies, making it ideal for butterfly gardens.
- Photography Subject: Its striking appearance makes 'Magnus' a favored subject for photographers, particularly those who specialize in botanical and garden photography.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may use the flower as a muse or model for paintings, drawings, and other art pieces due to its form and color.
- Seed Production: The cones of 'Magnus' produce seeds that are valued for propagating new plants and for feeding birds in winter.
- Educational Tool: In schools and community gardens, Echinacea 'Magnus' is used to teach about plant biology and pollinator relationships.
- Soil Erosion Control: The plant's robust root system can help to stabilize soil and control erosion in certain landscapes.
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 the purple coneflower, is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, especially its ability to boost the immune system and fend off infections, making it a symbol of health and well-being.
- Strength: The plant has a resilient nature, being drought-tolerant and capable of thriving in poor soil conditions, so it symbolizes strength and endurance.
- Purity: With its bright, typically purple flowers, it is often associated with purity and spirituality, representing a clean and clear mind.
- Beauty: The purple coneflower's attractive blooms symbolize beauty and are often used in gardens and natural remedies for their aesthetic quality as well as their medicinal benefits.
WaterPurple coneflower requires even moisture, particularly when plants are setting up roots and during dry spells. Once established, these drought-tolerant plants will only need watering during prolonged dry periods. It is generally recommended to water deeply, allowing the water to reach the roots rather than just moistening the surface. Depending on the climate and soil type, watering once a week with approximately one inch of water, or around 0.623 gallons per square yard, should suffice for established plants during the growing season. Always check the soil before watering; it should be dry an inch below the surface.
LightPurple coneflower thrives in full sun, meaning it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for these hardy perennials is an area where they can enjoy the unfiltered sun throughout the majority of the day. While Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' can tolerate partial shade, too little light can lead to weak stems and poor flowering.
TemperaturePurple coneflower is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It does best in areas where the average temperature ranges from 65°F to 75°F but can survive in temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 85°F or more. These plants typically go dormant in the winter, so they can withstand frost and colder conditions.
PruningPruning purple coneflower is beneficial for promoting bushier growth and preventing self-seeding if not desired. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms and extend the flowering period. Cut back the stems to about 3 inches during late winter or early spring before new growth starts for a tidier appearance. Pruning is typically done after flowering; however, leaving some seed heads over winter can provide food for birds.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower requires well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. A blend of loamy garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite can create an ideal mix that supports robust growth.
RepottingConeflower, when grown in containers, should be repotted every few years or when it outgrows its current pot to ensure continued health and space for root growth.
Humidity & MistingConeflower is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and thrives in the average outdoor humidity found in its native environment, without specific humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a sunny spot and ensure good air circulation for indoor growth.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun and well-drained soil for best results.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea purpurea 'Magnus', commonly known as Purple Coneflower 'Magnus', begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown in soil, germinates typically in spring. After germination, it grows a rosette of leaves at soil level, from which a stout stem develops, reaching up to 3 to 4 feet tall. During the summer months, typically from June to August, it blooms with large, daisy-like purple flowers with prominent, raised central cones. After flowering, the plant produces seeds that are spread by wind and animals, enabling the propagation of new plants. In the fall, the aerial parts of the plant die back with the onset of colder weather, while the roots remain alive in a period of dormancy. Purple Coneflower 'Magnus' is a perennial, and it will emerge again the following spring to continue the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus', commonly known as Purple Coneflower, is often propagated by dividing the clumps of the plant. The optimal time for this is either in the spring after the last frost or during the fall. This process involves digging up an established plant and gently separating the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has a part of the root system and several shoots. The divided sections can then be replanted in the ground at the same depth they were previously growing, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Watering well after planting is essential to help establish the new divisions. This method of propagation maintains the characteristics of the 'Magnus' variety and results in mature plants more quickly than starting from seed.
