Purple coneflower Echinacea purpurea Mistral = 'Echmis' (PBR)
![purple coneflower [Mistral]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b5ecbb98bb.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
Echinacea purpurea Mistral, commonly known as Purple Coneflower 'Echmis', is a perennial plant that boasts an attractive and vibrant appearance. This variety is particularly known for its large, daisy-like flowers which feature prominent, cone-shaped centers that are typically a deep orange or brown color. These centers give the flowers their distinctive "coneflower" look and are surrounded by an array of petals that flare outwards. The petals of the Purple Coneflower 'Echmis' vary in color, usually displaying rich hues of purple or pink, which add to the visual appeal of the plant. The petals may sometimes have a slightly drooping habit, which gives the flowers a relaxed, carefree look. The lush green leaves are lance-shaped and toothed, contributing to the plant's healthy and robust foliage. As the Purple Coneflower 'Echmis' blooms, it tends to attract bees, butterflies, and birds to its nectar, offering not only beauty but also serving as a source of food for various pollinators. This plant adds a splash of color to gardens and is often used in floral arrangements or as part of naturalistic planting schemes. Overall, the Echinacea purpurea Mistral brings a touch of natural charm and elegance to any space it occupies, boasting a spectacular display of flowers that can captivate the eyes of onlookers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Purple Coneflower, Eastern Purple Coneflower
Common names
Echinacea purpurea Mistral = 'Echmis' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question, commonly known as Purple Coneflower, is generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. It is, in fact, widely used in herbal medicine for its purported immune-boosting properties. There are no common symptoms of poisoning because it is not typically considered a poisonous plant. However, like any substance, it's possible for individuals to experience allergic reactions or side effects, particularly if they have allergies to other plants in the Asteraceae family.
To pets
Similar to humans, Purple Coneflower is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. It is not typically associated with causing symptoms of poisoning in animals such as cats and dogs. However, individual animals may have different sensitivities, and ingestion of plant material can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset in some pets. If an animal ingests a large quantity of the plant and exhibits unusual symptoms, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Echinacea purpurea is known for attracting bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination and the health of the ecosystem.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for gardens in arid regions or where water conservation is a concern.
- Low Maintenance: Echinacea requires minimal care once established, avoiding the need for frequent watering, fertilizing, or pruning.
- Long Blooming Period: The plant offers a lengthy season of blooms, usually from midsummer to autumn, providing long-lasting visual interest.
- Hardy: Echinacea is known for its hardiness, often capable of withstanding harsh winters and resisting many common plant diseases.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its distinctive purple flowers, Echinacea adds color and beauty to any garden, serving as an attractive focal point or complementing other plants.
Medical Properties- Immune system support: Echinacea is commonly used to help support the immune system, particularly in the prevention and treatment of common colds and respiratory infections.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: It has been said to have anti-inflammatory properties that may be beneficial in reducing symptoms of conditions like osteoarthritis.
- Antioxidant properties: The plant contains compounds that are thought to have antioxidant effects, which can help protect cells from damage by free radicals.
- Wound healing: Topically, Echinacea has been used to promote wound healing due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antiviral activity: Some research suggests that Echinacea may have activity against certain viruses, although this is not conclusively proven and requires more scientific evidence.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Echinacea purpurea can be used in natural dyeing processes, imparting colors ranging from greens to browns depending on the mordants used.
- The dried seed heads of Echinacea purpurea can be used in floral arrangements, adding an interesting texture and shape to the composition.
- Butterfly gardening is another use for Echinacea purpurea, as it attracts a variety of butterflies and beneficial insects to the garden.
- These flowers can be utilized in educational settings, teaching students about plant biology, pollination, and native species conservation.
- The tough stems of Echinacea purpurea can be used in traditional crafts such as making natural plant stakes or woven plant supports.
- Echinacea purpurea flowers can be incorporated into natural cosmetics, providing color and potential antioxidant properties in soaps and creams.
- The plant can serve as a natural pest deterrent in gardens because some pests tend to avoid it due to its strong fragrance and essential oils.
- The leaves and petals can be used to infuse oils with fragrance and color for use in homemade potpourris.
- Echinacea purpurea seed heads can be used to fill out mixed-media art projects, lending an organic and distinctive aspect to the artwork.
- As a subject in photography, Echinacea purpurea offers a vibrant, cone-shaped focal point, ideal for close-up nature photography.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Echinacea, commonly known as the purple coneflower, is not traditionally used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Echinacea, commonly known as the purple coneflower, is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Echinacea, commonly known as Purple Coneflower, is renowned for its medicinal properties. It's widely used to boost the immune system and fight infections.
- Strength and Resilience: The robust nature of the Purple Coneflower, able to withstand harsh conditions, symbolizes endurance and the ability to cope with adversity.
- Purity: The color of the flower can also symbolize purity and cleanliness, harkening back to its use in traditional medicine for cleansing purposes.
- Beauty: With its striking purple petals and prominent cone-shaped centers, the Purple Coneflower is often associated with beauty and appreciation for the natural world.
WaterThe Echinacea purpurea, more commonly known as the Purple Coneflower, requires a moderate amount of water, with more frequent watering during the establishment period after planting and during dry spells. It is best watered deeply at the soil level, avoiding overhead watering to prevent disease. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions. In general, watering once a week with about 1 inch of water (approximately 0.6 gallons per square foot) is sufficient for established plants. Adjust the watering frequency based on rainfall, temperature, and soil conditions, reducing it as the plant matures since Echinacea is drought-tolerant.
LightThe Purple Coneflower thrives best when it receives full sun for at least 6 hours a day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, especially in regions with very hot summers. The ideal spot for this plant would be in an area that gets ample morning sunlight with some afternoon shade, or a place with bright, direct light throughout the day to promote strong, healthy growth and better flower production.
TemperatureThe Purple Coneflower is well-adapted to a wide range of temperatures and can typically survive in temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit. They grow best in an environment where the average temperature ranges between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important not to plant Echinacea purpurea outdoors until the risk of frost has passed and the soil temperature is at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning the Purple Coneflower improves its appearance and promotes bushier growth and more flowers. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage a second bloom in the fall. Pruning should be done after the first frost in late autumn or early winter, cutting back the stems to about 3 inches above the ground. In warmer climates, leave some spent flowers on the plant during winter for birds and to add interest to the winter garden.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea 'Echmis') thrives in well-drained soil with a moderate amount of organic matter. A mixture of garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite is ideal. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. It is important to avoid heavy, clay soils that retain moisture and may lead to root rot.
RepottingPurple Coneflower typically does not require frequent repotting as it is generally grown as a perennial in gardens. However, if grown in containers, repotting every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot can be beneficial, using the soil mix specified for optimal health.
Humidity & MistingPurple Coneflower is tolerant of a range of humidity levels and does well in the natural outdoor environment without any special humidity requirements. It is a hardy plant that is well-suited to both humid and dry conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate water.
Outdoor
Sunny spot, well-draining soil, regular watering, mulch in winter.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, begins its life cycle as a seed, which when sown, requires a period of stratification or cold treatment before germination in spring. After germination, the seedling goes through vegetative growth, developing a strong root system and foliage in the form of a rosette. As the plant matures, typically in the second year, it begins to send up flowering stems, culminating in the distinctive purple-pink blooms that are daisy-like with a central cone, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Post pollination, these flowers produce seeds that are dispersed by wind or animals, allowing the plant to propagate and establish new plants nearby. The plant typically behaves as a herbaceous perennial in many climates, dying back to the ground in winter and re-emerging from its rootstock in spring. Throughout its life, Echinacea purpurea 'Mistral' (PBR) requires full sun, well-drained soil and is known for its hardiness and minimal care requirements, making it a popular plant in gardens and naturalized areas.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The most popular method of propagation for Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as Purple Coneflower, is by seed. Seeds can be sown in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. They should be planted in well-draining soil, at a depth approximately 1/8 inch (about 3 millimeters) and spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for mature growth. It's important to keep the soil moist until germination, which typically occurs in 10-20 days. Once seedlings are established, they are quite tolerant of drought and heat. This method is favorable because it allows for the production of many plants at a relatively low cost, and it maintains the genetic diversity of the species.
