Purple coneflower Echinacea purpurea 'Southern Belle' (PBR) (Cone-fections Series) (d)
ABOUT
Echinacea purpurea 'Southern Belle' is part of the Cone-fections Series and is known by the common name coneflower. This perennial plant is distinguished by its vibrant and robust flower heads that consist of a central cone surrounded by drooping petals. The cone is prominent and typically has a spiky appearance, ranging in color from dark brown to reddish-brown, which contrasts beautifully with the petals. The petals themselves are broad and slightly reflexed, emanating from the cone in a horizontal or downward fashion, giving the flower a distinctive, daisy-like form with a textural twist. These petals are typically a deep pink or magenta color, adding a rich splash of color to gardens. The plant's foliage consists of dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and have a rough, hairy texture, which adds to the overall attractive appearance of the plant. The coneflower blooms throughout summer, offering a long-lasting display of color. As the plant matures, the central cones of the flowers become more pronounced, and the seeds that form there are a draw for birds, particularly finches who feed on them in late summer and fall. The sturdy stems rarely require staking and hold the flowers well above the foliage, making them stand out in mixed plantings and borders.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Eastern Purple Coneflower, Purple Coneflower
Common names
Echinacea purpurea 'Southern Belle' (PBR) (Cone-fections Series) (d).
ToxicityTo humans
Purple coneflower is not considered toxic to humans. In fact, it is often used in herbal medicine for its purported immune-boosting properties. There are no common symptoms of poisoning from purple coneflower, as it does not contain toxic compounds known to adversely affect human health. However, some people may experience allergic reactions or upset stomach if they are sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family.
To pets
Purple coneflower is also not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe when pets come into contact with it, and no toxic effects are expected if pets ingest parts of this plant. However, it's always wise to monitor your pets for any signs of illness and to keep an eye on their dietary habits, as individual animals may have unique sensitivities.
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
3-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Echinacea purpurea 'Southern Belle' attracts bees and butterflies, which are important for pollinating other plants in the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this variety of coneflower is notably tolerant to drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Easy to Care For: It is generally low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once it's established in the appropriate climate and soil conditions.
- Long Blooming Period: Offering a long flowering season, it provides vibrant colors and interest from mid-summer to early autumn.
- Decorative Seed Heads: The plant produces interesting seed heads that add a textural element to the garden landscape even after the blooming period.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides food and habitat for birds, especially as the seeds from the spent blooms are a food source in the fall and winter.
- Garden Structure: Its sturdy stems and height provide structure and backbone to garden borders and flower beds.
- Cut Flowers: The flowers make for excellent cut arrangements, adding color and interest to bouquets.
Medical Properties- Immune system support: Echinacea is commonly believed to stimulate the immune system, which may help to prevent or reduce the symptoms of colds and other infections.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Some components in Echinacea, like alkamides, have been suggested to reduce inflammation, potentially benefiting conditions with an inflammatory component.
- Antioxidant properties: Echinacea contains compounds that may act as antioxidants, protecting the body's cells from damage by free radicals.
- Antimicrobial activity: Certain compounds in Echinacea, such as echinacoside, have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, possibly effective against various bacteria and viruses.
- Wound healing: Topical application of Echinacea preparations has been considered for their potential to promote wound healing due to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The flowers and roots of Echinacea purpurea can be used to produce natural dyes for textiles in hues of pink, green, or brown depending on the mordant used.
- Floral Arrangements: Echinacea purpurea 'Southern Belle' is a desirable choice for fresh cut flower arrangements due to its large, ornamental blooms that add a splash of color to any bouquet.
- Garden Borders: Due to its height and striking appearance, it can be planted along the edges of garden beds to create a defined and aesthetically pleasing border.
- Pollinator Habitat: The flowers are known to attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees, providing a habitat and food source for these beneficial pollinators.
- Artistic Inspiration: The distinct appearance of Echinacea purpurea 'Southern Belle' can serve as a source of inspiration for artists and crafters in their botanical illustrations or nature-inspired designs.
- Educational Tool: The plant can be utilized in educational settings such as schools and nature centers to teach students about plant biology, ecology, and the importance of native flora.
- Companion Planting: This variety of Echinacea can be used in companion planting to enhance the growth and vitality of nearby plants with different nutrient demands or pest-repelling abilities.
- Wildlife Photography: The Echinacea purpurea 'Southern Belle' serves as an enticing subject for wildlife photographers, especially when capturing images of pollinators in action.
- Theme Gardens: It is suitable for themed gardens, such as prairie-style landscapes or perennial cottage gardens, contributing to a cohesive design theme with its distinct form and color.
- Winter Interest: The dried seed heads of Echinacea purpurea 'Southern Belle' can add texture and interest to the garden during the winter months, providing an aesthetic appeal even outside the growing 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, commonly known as purple coneflower, is often associated with healing properties due to its use in herbal medicine to boost the immune system and fight infections.
- Strength: The robust nature of the purple coneflower, which can withstand harsh conditions, represents strength and resilience.
- Purity: With its striking, pure colored petals, the purple coneflower is sometimes linked to purity.
WaterPurple Coneflower 'Southern Belle' should be watered deeply but infrequently, as this stimulates the plant to grow deeper roots, enhancing drought tolerance. This may translate to about 1 inch of water per week, depending on local climate conditions. During extended periods of hot, dry weather, you may need to water twice per week. Pay close attention to the moisture of the soil; it should be allowed to become slightly dry between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases, so ensure the plant is in well-draining soil.
LightPurple Coneflower 'Southern Belle' thrives in full sun conditions, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day are ideal. They can tolerate some light shade, especially in hot climates, but bloom best in full sun. Make sure to plant them in a location where sunlight is abundant for strong growth and vibrant blooms.
TemperaturePurple Coneflower 'Southern Belle' prefers to be grown in an environment where temperatures range between 70°F and 85°F. They are hardy and can survive winter temperatures down to about -30°F and summer temperatures as high as 100°F. For optimal growth, aim to provide temperatures within the range preferential for the plant.
PruningPruning Purple Coneflower 'Southern Belle' is important to promote more blooms and maintain plant health. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage additional blooming. In the fall, you can cut the plants back to a few inches above the soil after they have finished blooming and the leaves have died back. This helps to reduce the chance of disease and readies the plant for its winter dormancy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor the best growth of Purple Coneflower, use a well-draining soil mix with a good amount of organic matter. Aim for a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite can provide the balance of nutrients and drainage this plant prefers.
RepottingPurple Coneflowers typically do not need frequent repotting and can thrive in the same spot for several years. They should be repotted or divided every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and to manage their spread in the garden.
Humidity & MistingPurple Coneflower is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and does not require any special humidity considerations when planted outdoors in its preferred environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, moderate watering, and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea purpurea 'Southern Belle,' commonly known as the Purple Coneflower, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in late winter to early spring. The seedlings emerge and grow into a rosette of leaves at ground level during their first growing season. In the second year, they typically produce strong vertical stems and flower from mid-summer to autumn with distinctive large, pinkish-purple blooms with a large, raised, central cone that are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After flowering, the plant produces seeds that are dispersed by wind, birds, or other means, allowing the cycle to continue. During the autumn, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, while the root system remains alive, allowing the plant to survive the winter and regenerate in the spring. Purple Coneflower is a perennial, living for several years and going through multiple cycles of growth, blooming, and seed production.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Echinacea purpurea 'Southern Belle' (more commonly known as the Purple Coneflower) is best propagated through division. This is typically carried out in the spring as the new growth appears. To propagate by division, the gardener should carefully lift the plant out of the soil, ensuring as much of the root system is intact as possible. The clump should then be separated into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. These sections can then be replanted at the same depth they were growing before, spaced about 1 to 2 feet apart to allow for ample growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method is effective for expanding your collection of Purple Coneflowers or rejuvenating older plants that have become too crowded.
