Species coneflower
red-orange flowers with green leaves and stems

coneflower

Echinacea 'Secret Lust'

Echinacea 'Secret Lust' Coneflower is a species that is not only beautiful, but also incredibly beneficial to the environment. With large daisy-like petals that are bright pink and dazzling yellow in the center, this species is sure to catch the eye. But more than just eye-catching, Echinacea 'Secret Lust' is incredibly hardy and grows well in multiple soils and climates. What's more, when other plant species are scarce, Coneflowers attract pollinators like Monarch butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Finally, Coneflowers also has medicinal properties and is known to help the immune system. For all of these reasons, Echinacea 'Secret Lust' is an amazing species.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Root Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Light-pink rays with orange-red center cone (double) Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,purple,pink

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Coneflower (Echinacea 'Secret Lust') should be watered once a week throughout its growing season. Make sure to water it deeply, providing it with 1-2 inches of water per session. During periods of warmer weather, you may need to water it more frequently in order to prevent the soil from drying out. Check the soil near the base of the plant by inserting your finger in the soil to gauge whether or not the coneflower needs more water. Water the plant until the soil is saturated and then allow it to drain. If the soil is still damp or wet, wait a few days before watering again.

sunlight

Coneflower (Echinacea 'Secret Lust') prefers full sun in most areas and at least 6 hours of direct sunlight is ideal. If planted in part shade, some flowering may occur, but the bloom time is typically shortened. Therefore, it is recommended that Echinacea 'Secret Lust' be placed in an area of the landscape that allows it to receive an abundance of sunlight during the peak of the day (from 10am-4pm). The amount of sunlight received depends on the climate of the area, but all plants should receive a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

pruning

Coneflower (Echinacea 'Secret Lust') should be pruned in the early spring when the ground begins to warm up and the leaves begin to appear. Prune off all the dead or dying stems and leaves, and then lightly prune away the extra foliage to open up airflow and maximize light exposure. In late spring, remove any discolored leaves, as well as any stems that are damaged or not flowering. In mid-summer, remove any faded flowers to promote further blooming and also any stems that have become spindly or too long. Lastly, in fall, cut back dead stems and foliage for maintenance.

Season

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

Echinacea 'Secret Lust' typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Echinacea 'Secret Lust' typically starts 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.