Narrow-leaved Coneflower
echinacea angustifolia
Also known as: ["Narrow-leaved Purple Coneflower","Prairie Coneflower"]
Overview
A hardy perennial herb native to North America, known for its conical central disk and narrow leaves, often used for medicinal purposes.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Echinacea |
| Botanical Name: | Echinacea angustifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in full sun, or container with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers as they fade. Prune stems back by one-third in early spring to encourage new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning for shaping and deadheading; heavy pruning can be done in early spring if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is ideal; avoid deep shade; rotate pots for even growth; provide afternoon shade in extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil; enrich with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold winters but requires a period of dormancy.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive foliage growth; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of established clumps. Seeds can also be used but require stratification for germination.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to develop.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not under stress.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with indirect light. Protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–6 weeks. Seeds may take 3–6 months to germinate after stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid disturbing cuttings until roots form.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to make cuts just above a leaf node or bud. Remove dead or crossing branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems. Deadheading spent flowers promotes continuous blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; deadhead spent flowers; shape as needed; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Echinacea prefers slightly crowded roots but benefits from fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root system, and allow excess to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or failure to flower in overly cold conditions; bud drop during temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration. Prolonged freezing can damage roots if not properly mulched.
Solution: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base to insulate roots. Move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering. Plants may become stressed and vulnerable to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Water deeply to cool roots and maintain soil moisture. Increase humidity around the plant if possible.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEchinacea angustifolia is not considered toxic to cats when ingested in small quantities. However, its effects on cats have not been extensively studied.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicEchinacea angustifolia is not considered toxic to dogs when ingested in small quantities. It is sometimes used in veterinary medicine for its immune-boosting effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicEchinacea angustifolia is widely used in herbal medicine and is considered non-toxic for humans when used appropriately. It is known for its immune-boosting properties and is generally well-tolerated.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Echinacea angustifolia safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Echinacea angustifolia?
A: Water sparingly; it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Echinacea angustifolia?
A: It is commonly used to boost the immune system and treat colds and infections.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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