Tennessee coneflower
echinacea tennesseensis
Also known as: ["Tennessee purple coneflower","Nashville coneflower"]
Overview
A rare, herbaceous perennial native to Tennessee, known for its vibrant purple-pink flowers and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Echinacea |
| Botanical Name: | Echinacea tennesseensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: raised beds or slopes in open, sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in dormant season
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy, slightly alkaline soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid waterlogged soil; amend with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates heat but benefits from cooler nights. Dormancy in winter requires temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid fertilizing during dormancy; water before and after applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division in early spring. Seeds can be sown in fall for natural stratification.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer for stem cuttings; fall for seeds.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings root in 4–6 weeks; seeds germinate in 2–3 months with stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or healthy buds. Remove spent flower heads to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems annually to encourage new growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; remove spent flowers; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil. Gently tease out crowded roots. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Echinacea prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth. Allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture levels.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage if soil freezes.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter. Move potted plants to a sheltered location. Avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas. Reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEchinacea tennesseensis is not considered toxic to cats. However, its use in felines is less documented compared to dogs and humans.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicEchinacea tennesseensis is not considered toxic to dogs. It is sometimes used in veterinary medicine for its anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicEchinacea tennesseensis is not considered toxic to humans. It is widely used in herbal medicine for its immune-boosting properties.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Echinacea tennesseensis safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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