White Coneflower Echinacea purpurea 'Purity' (PBR)

👤 Non-toxic to humans

🐾 Non-toxic to pets

🌸 Blooming

🍪 Edible

‍🌱 Easy-care

ABOUT

Echinacea purpurea 'Purity' is commonly known as the white coneflower due to its distinctive and striking flower heads. This perennial plant is characterized by its large, daisy-like flowers that boast pure white petals arranged around a prominent, cone-shaped center that is typically orange or brown in color. The petals are typically broad and slightly reflexed, radiating outwards and down from the central cone. The center cone is textured and spiky, adding contrast and interest to the flower. The foliage of the white coneflower consists of dark green leaves that are lanceolate or ovate in shape, with a rough, hairy texture. The leaves are often arrayed in a rosette at the base of the plant, and along the stems. The stems themselves are sturdy and branching, supporting the individual blooms which tend to stand out prominently against the rest of the plant. Echinacea purpurea 'Purity' presents a pure and somewhat ethereal aesthetic to any garden setting, with its clean white blooms that attract a variety of pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its elegant simplicity makes it a popular choice among gardeners who wish to add a touch of serenity and natural beauty to their landscapes.

Plant Info

Care

Common Problems

About this plant

Names
- Family
  Asteraceae
- Synonyms
  Eastern Purple Coneflower, Purple Coneflower
- Common names
  Echinacea purpurea 'Purity' (PBR)
Toxicity
- To humans
  Coneflower, including the Echinacea purpurea 'Purity' cultivar, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely used in herbal remedies and is believed to support the immune system. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or mild gastrointestinal upsets if they have sensitivities to the plant or if consumed in very large quantities. It is always advised to use medicinal plants with caution and consult healthcare professionals before doing so.
- To pets
  Coneflower, specifically Echinacea purpurea 'Purity', is generally recognized as safe for pets, with no significant toxicity reported in cats and dogs. While it is not commonly associated with poisoning, pets with particular sensitivities may experience mild stomach upset if they ingest the plant. If your pet has consumed a large amount of the plant and is showing adverse symptoms, it is best to consult with a veterinarian.
Characteristics
- Life cycle
  Perennials
- Foliage type
  Deciduous
- Color of leaves
  Green
- Flower color
  White
- Height
  2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
- Spread
  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
- Plant type
  Herb
- Hardiness zones
  3-8
- Native area
  North America

Benefits

General Benefits
- Attracts pollinators: 'Purity' is known to attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, which are important for pollination.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it has good drought resistance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Easy to grow: This cultivar of Echinacea is relatively easy to care for, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Low maintenance: It requires minimal upkeep in terms of pruning and feeding, making it a convenient choice for those with busy lifestyles.
- Long blooming period: 'Purity' offers a long flowering season, usually from early summer to fall, providing extended visual interest.
- Wildlife friendly: Apart from pollinators, the plant also supports local wildlife, offering shelter and food.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its pure white flowers and robust green foliage, it adds elegance and beauty to any garden or landscape design.
- Resistant to deer and rabbits: The plant is not a preferred choice for deer and rabbits, which helps prevent herbivory damage.
- Compact size: 'Purity' is suitable for small spaces or container gardening due to its relatively compact growth habit.
Medical Properties
- Immune system support: Echinacea purpurea is commonly believed to stimulate the immune system, potentially reducing the severity and duration of colds and other infections.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The plant may have anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce symptoms related to inflammation.
- Antioxidant activity: Echinacea purpurea contains compounds that have antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Antimicrobial effects: Some studies suggest that Echinacea possesses antimicrobial properties that might be effective against certain bacteria and viruses.
- Skin health: Topically applied Echinacea extracts are sometimes used for wound healing and treating skin conditions due to its potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- Insectary Plants: Echinacea, also known as coneflower, can be used to attract beneficial insects to the garden, such as ladybugs and predatory wasps, which help to control pest populations.
- Erosion Control: Due to its deep root system, coneflower can be planted on slopes or areas prone to erosion to help stabilize the soil and prevent the loss of topsoil.
- Companion Planting: Coneflower can be used in companion planting to enhance the growth of other plants, such as tomatoes, by attracting pollinators or deterring pests.
- Dye Production: The petals and seeds of coneflower can be used to create natural dyes for coloring fabrics or crafting inks.
- Edible Landscaping: While not commonly consumed, coneflower petals and seeds are edible and can be used to add a splash of color to salads or as a garnish.
- Cut Flowers: Coneflower makes a long-lasting addition to bouquets and floral arrangements due to its sturdy stems and vibrant, long-blooming flowers.
- Photography and Art: The striking appearance of coneflower, with its bold colors and pronounced central cone, makes it a favorite subject for photographers and artists.
- Winter Interest: Even after the blooming season, the dried seed heads of coneflower provide visual interest in the garden during the winter months.
- Wildlife Shelter: The dense foliage and structural stems of coneflower provide shelter and nesting sites for small wildlife, such as birds and beneficial insects.
- Education: Coneflower can be used as a tool for educational gardens, where individuals can learn about plant biology, pollination, and the role of native plants in the ecosystem.

Interesting Facts

Feng Shui
The Coneflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Coneflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
- Healing: Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is recognized for its medicinal properties, traditionally used to boost the immune system and fight infections.
- Strength: It is considered a symbol of physical strength and resilience, as Echinacea plants can stand tall and resist harsh conditions.
- Purity: The 'Purity' variety, with its striking white flowers, is often associated with cleanliness, innocence, and simplicity.

💧

Every week

Water

☀️

2500 - 10000 Lux

Light

💦️

Humidity

🪴

Every year

Repotting

🌱️

Spring to early summer

Propogation

✂️️

As needed

Pruning

Water
Coneflower 'Purity' should be watered deeply yet infrequently to mimic natural rainfall, typically once a week during dry periods, but this may vary depending on climate and soil conditions. Aim to provide about one inch of water weekly, which translates to about 0.623 gallons for a small garden area of 10 square feet. Ensure the water penetrates the soil to reach the roots rather than just wetting the surface. In hot, dry climates, you may need to increase the frequency to prevent the soil from completely drying out. During the winter or in periods of rainfall, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging.
Light
Coneflower 'Purity' thrives best in full sun but can tolerate some light shade, especially in hotter climates. The ideal spot is one where the plant will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid heavily shaded areas as this can hinder bloom production and lead to weaker growth.
Temperature
Coneflower 'Purity' can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from as low as -30°F in winter to temperatures that exceed 90°F in summer. However, the ideal temperature for robust growth and flowering is between 65°F and 75°F. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
Pruning
Prune Coneflower 'Purity' to remove spent flowers and encourage further blooming throughout the season. Deadheading, or cutting back the old flowers, should be done regularly. In late fall or early spring, cut back the plant to about 4-6 inches to promote healthy new growth when the growing season begins. Pruning is also a good time to shape the plant and manage its size.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
For Coneflower, the best soil mix should be well-draining with a good amount of organic matter. A mix containing two parts garden soil, one part compost, and one part sand or perlite would be ideal. The preferred pH range for Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea 'Purity') is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0.
Repotting
Coneflowers typically do not need to be repotted often as they are mostly grown as outdoor perennials. However, if grown in containers, repotting every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot is sufficient. It's best to repot in the spring before the growing season starts.
Humidity & Misting
Coneflower thrives in average outdoor humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions. As a native prairie plant, it is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and is quite drought-resistant once established.
Suitable locations
- Indoor
  Ensure bright light, well-drained soil, and room to grow.
- Outdoor
  Plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
- Hardiness zone
  3-8 USDA
Life cycle
The life of Echinacea purpurea 'Purity', commonly known as the White Coneflower, begins with seed germination, which occurs in spring or early summer when soil temperatures warm. After germination, the seedling develops a rosette of leaves at the soil surface and an extensive root system. In the following years, the plant enters a vegetative stage, producing larger leaves and clumps that increase in size. Once mature, usually in the second year, the plant begins its reproductive phase, producing tall, sturdy stems topped with white flowers that have a prominent, cone-shaped central disc. After flowering, which typically occurs from midsummer to early fall, the flowers are pollinated by insects, leading to seed formation. The plant then enters a period of dormancy in winter, with the roots surviving underground to sprout again the next growing season.
Propogation
- Propogation time
  Spring to early summer
- Echinacea purpurea 'Purity', also known as White Coneflower, is typically propagated by division, which is the most popular method for this perennial. This technique is best performed in the spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump of Echinacea and use a sharp spade or knife to divide the clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a portion of the root system and several shoots. Replant the new divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing, spacing them about 1 to 3 feet (about 30 to 91 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish the root system.