Species coneflower
bright-yellow flowers with yellow-green center, yellow-black stamens, green leaves on light-green stems

coneflower

Echinacea 'Balsomsolst' SOMBRERO SUMMER SOLSTICE

Coneflower, or Echinacea 'Balsomsolst' SOMBRERO SUMMER SOLSTICE, is an amazing flower for your garden. The 3-4" daisy-like flowers bloom in late summer in shades of bright yellow and rosy-pink. The petals and cone-shaped central disks create a stunning display. Plus, cone flowers are low maintenance - requiring just average watering and blooming for months. Growing from 2-3 feet tall, its foliage is also attractive, with thin, lance-shaped green leaves. Not to mention, the leaves and petals are loaded with antioxidants, making cone flowers a perfect addition to any garden!

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Stem Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 9

Flowers:

Yellow rays with white bases surrounding orange center cone Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

bronze,green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Coneflowers thrive in sunny locations with well-draining soils. During the first growing season, water your Sombrero Summer Solstice Coneflowers deeply 2 to 3 times per week in order to establish a healthy root system. Once the roots are established, water less frequently (about once per week) as too much moisture can cause root rot. During periods of extreme heat, you may need to water more frequently to ensure that the plant does not wilt. Coneflowers are generally drought-tolerant and can survive several weeks of dry weather.

sunlight

Coneflower (Echinacea 'Balsomsolst' SOMBRERO SUMMER SOLSTICE) needs plenty of sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. It should be planted in a sunny location that receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If possible, sunlight should be concentrated during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. In addition, the Coneflower should be protected from hot afternoon sun during the summer months, especially when temperatures exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

pruning

Coneflower (Echinacea 'Balsomsolst' SOMBRERO SUMMER SOLSTICE) is a low-growing, perennial flower that blooms for a long period of time. Pruning should be done regularly to keep the plant healthy and to promote blooming. Late spring is the best time for pruning coneflower. After the flowers have faded, remove spent flowers and dead foliage. Cut back the plant by up to a third to keep the plant healthy and to encourage new growth. Cut stems down to the point where a couple of leaves remain and dispose of or compost the clippings. Pruning new growth during summer can also help to shape and limit the size of coneflower. Remove the growing tips to encourage branching and to give a more attractive overall shape. Pinch back any stems that are growing too tall or stray off the plant's natural form. In late summer, remove any dead foliage at the base of the plants. This will also help to increase air flow, which can help keep the plant healthy and free of disease. In autumn, after the plants have gone dormant, prune coneflower back to its original shape and size. This will remove some of the dead foliage and allow the plant to go into winter in a healthy state. Pruning is an essential maintenance task that should be done on a regular basis to ensure the health and attractive blooms of coneflower. Late spring is the best time to start pruning, and continuing to prune the plant throughout summer and autumn will help to keep it healthy.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Coneflowers typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Coneflowers typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map

FAQ

Can coneflowers grow well in containers?

Yes, coneflowers can grow extremely well in containers. The best container for them is a large one as they prefer a lot of room to grow their roots. Additionally, be sure to use a fertile and well-draining potting soil and water regularly. Potted coneflowers should be fertilized monthly with a balanced fertilzer and divided yearly in order to ensure optimal health and flowering of these beloved plants.

Could coneflowers be used for landscaping?

Yes, coneflowers can be used for landscaping. They are generally perennials and come in a variety of colors, including yellow, pink, burgundy, and white. They are very hardy and require little attention and care, making them a good choice for low-maintenance landscaping. When planted in clusters, coneflowers bloom throughout the summer and can provide beautiful colors and texture to your garden. Coneflowers are also very attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds and can help you attract wildlife to your yard.

Could coneflowers be planted in a meadow?

Yes, coneflowers can be planted in a meadow. Coneflowers grow best in sunny locations and their long stems make them an excellent choice for a meadow landscape. They will enjoy sandy or loamy soils that drain well and need supplemental water during periods of drought. They can also be cultivated in areas with higher humidity, although they may require more maintenance and protection from insect pests. Coneflowers will add a splash of beautiful color to the meadow and will attract native bees and butterflies which can help to create a vibrant, natural environment.

Could coneflowers be planted in a meadow?

Yes, coneflowers can be planted in a meadow. They usually thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. If your meadow soil is too moist, coneflowers may not do well. It's best to prepare the soil with compost or aged manure and always water the plants in the morning to reduce the chances of disease. Coneflowers attract beneficial insects, butterflies, and birds, making them a great addition to any meadow.

Could coneflowers be grown as cut flowers?

Yes, coneflowers can be grown as cut flowers. A few varieties of coneflower, such as 'White Swan' and 'Double Decker', can handle being cut and put in arrangements. However, it is important to wait until the blooms are just beginning to open or fully opened to ensure that they last longer. For best results, cut the stems when the flowers are dry and bring them inside quickly. Proper care for the cut flower coneflowers should include changing water regularly and recutting the stems when needed. In general, coneflowers are an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements.

Is it true that coneflowers bloom for a long time?

Yes, it is true that coneflowers bloom for a long time. They are a hardy perennial flower which blooms from late spring until the first frost in autumn. The flowering period for these plants can last for up to 8 weeks, and the individual flowers last for about 10 days each. Coneflowers are a great addition to any garden, with their vibrant colors, long bloom time and ability to attract butterflies making them an excellent choice for any garden.

Should coneflowers be mulched in the winter?

Yes, coneflowers should be mulched in the winter. Mulching coneflowers helps to protect them from the elements, such as cold temperatures and harsh winds. It also helps to promote water retention and prevent weed growth. For optimal results, spread a layer of mulch around the base of the coneflowers, making sure to keep it slightly away from the stems and leaves. For added protection, consider using a thick layer of evergreen boughs or leaves. Just remember to remove the layer of mulch when temperatures rise in the spring, as the added protection can prevent the coneflower from getting its required light and water.

Are coneflowers biennial or perennial?

Coneflowers are generally thought of as a perennial flower, meaning that they can last for multiple years in an area and will be able to grow again year after year. While some coneflowers have the potential to be grown as a biennial, meaning that they will need to reseed and start over again after two years, they are more commonly grown as a perennial. This means that they will last much longer and can provide vibrant and cheerful blooms year after year.