Echinacea purpurea aka Purple Coneflower
Taxonomy
Echinacea purpurea, also known as eastern purple coneflower, purple coneflower, hedgehog coneflower, or simply echinacea, is a perennial plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to eastern North America and can be found in dry open woods, prairies, and barrens. It is particularly common in the Ozarks and the Mississippi/Ohio Valley regions.
Echinacea purpurea is a medicinal herb that has immunostimulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for alleviating cold symptoms. Studies have also shown that the plant may have antianxiety, antidepression, cytotoxicity, and antimutagenicity effects, although the clinical trials have produced mixed results regarding side effects.
Additionally, Purple Coneflower is a popular houseplant that is easy to care for, requiring regular watering and direct light within 1 foot of a window.
Common names
Purple Coneflower, Echinacea, Red EchinaceaHow to care for Purple Coneflower
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Purple Coneflower is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Purple Coneflower should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Purple Coneflower loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Purple Coneflower requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Purple Coneflower will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
Toxicity
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Fertilizer
The growth of Purple Coneflower is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
The Purple Coneflower is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.
Region of origin
Purple Coneflower’s native range is N. America - Virginia to Ohio and Michigan, south to Georgia and Louisiana.
More info:
Wikipedia
