Purple coneflower Echinacea purpurea 'Rubinglow'
ABOUT
Echinacea purpurea 'Rubinglow' is a perennial plant known for its striking and vibrant flowers. These blooms are characterized by daisy-like shapes with a prominent central cone that is typically deep orange to copper in color. Surrounding the cone are petals that tend to have a rich, ruby pink hue. They are usually arrayed in a somewhat drooping fashion, which adds to the visual interest of the flower head. The leaves of the 'Rubinglow' are dark green, with a rough, somewhat hairy texture. They have a lanceolate shape, meaning they are lance-shaped, with a broad base tapering to a point. These leaves are arranged in an alternating pattern along the plant's stems, providing a lush backdrop for the attractive blossoms. The Echinacea purpurea 'Rubinglow' typically blooms in the late spring or early summer and can continue to provide color in the garden through late summer into fall. As with many coneflowers, 'Rubinglow' is favored not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for its attractiveness to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Purple Coneflower, Eastern Purple Coneflower, Rubinglow Coneflower.
Common names
Brauneria purpurea, Echinacea purpurea, Rudbeckia purpurea.
ToxicityTo humans
Echinacea, also known as coneflower, is not generally regarded as toxic to humans. It is actually widely used for medicinal purposes, with people consuming parts of the plant, especially the roots and flowers, to boost the immune system and to treat various ailments. However, it's important to note that some individuals may have allergic reactions to Echinacea, particularly those who are allergic to other plants in the daisy family. Such allergic reactions could cause rashes, increased asthma symptoms, or anaphylaxis in severe cases. It is always advised to consult a healthcare provider before using Echinacea as a herbal supplement.
To pets
Coneflower is generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. As Echinacea is commonly used in gardens and is also a popular natural remedy for humans, accidental ingestion by pets doesn't typically lead to poisoning. However, individual animals may react differently, and some may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large quantities of the plant. Signs of such an upset could include vomiting or diarrhea. If you suspect your pet has consumed a large amount of Echinacea and is showing adverse symptoms, it's always best to consult 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 'Rubinglow' is known to attract bees and butterflies, which help with pollination of gardens and ecosystems.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is quite drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Low Maintenance: It does not require much care once established, which makes it appealing for gardeners looking for low-maintenance plants.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its vibrant ruby-red flowers, it adds color and visual interest to any garden setting.
- Long Blooming Period: The plant has a long flowering season, usually from early summer to fall, providing a sustained display of color.
- Wildlife Habitat: It offers food and habitat for wildlife, especially beneficial insects and birds.
- Hardiness: It is hardy in a wide range of climates (usually USDA zones 3-8), making it a versatile choice for many gardeners.
- Propagates Easily: It can be easily propagated from seed or by division, making it simple to share with others or expand in your own garden space.
- Naturalizes Well: The plant spreads readily (but usually not invasively) and can create natural-looking drifts in the landscape.
- Soil Adaptability: Echinacea purpurea 'Rubinglow' is adaptable to a range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soil.
Medical Properties- Immune system support: Echinacea purpurea is commonly used to bolster the immune system.
- Common cold: Often used as a remedy to reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains compounds that may reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antioxidant properties: The plant contains antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage.
- Wound healing: Applied topically, it is believed to facilitate the healing of wounds.
- Antimicrobial activity: Echinacea purpurea has been researched for its potential to fight various microbes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As natural fabric dye: Echinacea petals can be used to create a range of natural dyes, imparting colors from soft purples to vibrant pinks on fabrics.
- In floral arrangements: The distinctive, cone-shaped flowers of Echinacea add texture and a splash of color to both fresh and dried floral arrangements.
- As a pollinator attractant in eco-gardens: Echinacea is excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, contributing to the health of surrounding plant life and promoting biodiversity.
- In photography and art: The vivid colors and unique form of Echinacea make it a popular subject for photographers and artists looking to capture the beauty of nature.
- As companion plants: Echinacea can be planted alongside vegetables to attract pollinators, which is essential for the fruiting of many crops.
- For educational purposes: Echinacea plants can be used in schools and educational programs to teach students about plant growth, botany, and the importance of native species in ecosystems.
- As natural confetti: Dried Echinacea petals can be used as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper confetti for celebrations and events.
- In homemade potpourri: The colorful flowers and pleasant fragrance of Echinacea make it a great addition to homemade potpourri mixes.
- For wildlife habitats: Echinacea plants provide food and habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds that feed on their seeds in the fall and winter months.
- As a natural pest repellent: When planted in a garden, Echinacea can help to repel certain insects, thus protecting other plants in the vicinity.
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 and Health: Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as Purple Coneflower, is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly its ability to boost the immune system and ward off colds and other infections.
- Strength and Resilience: The sturdy nature of the Purple Coneflower, which can thrive in a variety of conditions and weather drought, is often seen as a symbol of strength and the ability to withstand adversity.
- Beauty and Attractiveness: The distinct appearance of the Purple Coneflower, with its vibrant hues and prominent central cone, signifies beauty and is often used in gardens to create visual interest and attract pollinators like butterflies.
- Purity and Cleansing: With its ties to medicine, the Purple Coneflower is also thought to represent purity and the cleansing of ailments, aligning with its use in herbal remedies to purify the body.
WaterPurple Coneflower should be watered deeply and infrequently, adapting to local rainfall patterns. A good rule of thumb is to provide about 1 inch of water weekly, either through rainfall or supplementary watering. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water twice a week. When watering, aim to soak the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches to encourage deep root growth. Overhead watering can lead to foliar diseases, so it’s best to water at the base of the plant, either early in the morning or late in the afternoon to reduce water loss due to evaporation. Avoid shallow, frequent watering which can lead to shallow roots and a weaker plant.
LightPurple Coneflower thrives in full sun, where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates where some afternoon shade can be beneficial. The best spot for this plant would be one that offers plenty of bright, direct light throughout most of the day.
TemperaturePurple Coneflower is hardy and can survive in a wide temperature range. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 90°F. However, the ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 65°F and 70°F. This plant is suited for USDA zones 3 to 8, making it versatile across many climates within these temperature ranges.
PruningPurple Coneflower benefits from pruning to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Deadheading spent blooms throughout the flowering season can stimulate new blooms. In late winter or early spring, cut back the plants to about 3 to 4 inches from the ground to help promote vigorous growth. It's also a good practice to remove any dead or damaged stems at this time to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower 'Rubinglow' thrives in well-draining soil with organic matter, such as a mix of loam, compost, and coarse sand for aeration. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 8.0, leaning towards neutral to slightly alkaline conditions, to provide an optimum environment for root development and nutrient uptake.
RepottingConeflower 'Rubinglow' does not require frequent repotting as it is generally grown as a perennial. It is typically repotted or divided every 3-4 years to rejuvenate the plant and prevent overcrowding. Repotting is best done in early spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingConeflower 'Rubinglow' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions to thrive; it is quite adaptive to the typical outdoor environment. This hardy perennial is well-suited for growth in various climates without the need for supplemental humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a sunny spot and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil; water moderately.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Echinacea purpurea 'Rubinglow', commonly known as Purple Coneflower 'Rubinglow', starts with seed germination, typically in the spring when the soil temperature reaches at least 65°F (18°C). The seedlings emerge and develop into vegetative rosettes during the first growing season, focusing on establishing robust root systems. In the second year, the plant begins to produce stems and foliage, with the characteristic large, daisy-like purple-pink flowers blooming from early to late summer. Once pollinated, mainly by bees and butterflies, the flowers develop into seed heads, which can self-sow if not deadheaded. Coneflower 'Rubinglow' can live for several years, going through repeated cycles of flowering and seed production, with clumps increasing in size each year. In winter, the plant dies back to the ground before regenerating the following spring, completing its perennial life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Echinacea purpurea 'Rubinglow', commonly known as the Purple Coneflower, is typically propagated by seed. The best time to propagate Coneflowers by seeds is in the fall or early winter. To propagate by this method, seeds should be sown directly into a prepared garden bed or started indoors. When starting indoors, the seeds should be chilled in the refrigerator for about 4-6 weeks (1-1.5 months) to stratify them, which helps improve germination rates. After stratification, seeds can be sown in a soilless mix, lightly covered, and kept moist. Germination can take anywhere from 10 to 20 days. Seedlings can then be transplanted outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, spaced about 18-24 inches (45-60 centimeters) apart to allow ample room for maturity.
