General Culture:
Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun. An adaptable plant that is tolerant of drought, heat, humidity and poor soil. Divide clumps when they become overcrowded (about every 4 years). Plants usually rebloom without deadheading, however prompt removal of spent flowers improves general appearance. Propagate vegetatively.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
‘Ruby Giant’ is a purple coneflower cultivar that is noted for its large, bold, dark-ruby pink flowers. It is a clump-forming perennial that features 7” diameter flowers with non-drooping ruby-pink rays and large orange-brown center cones. Long summer to fall bloom period. Coarsely-toothed, dark green leaves (3-6” long). Plants typically grow on rigid stems to 24-30” tall. Good fresh cut or dried flower. The dead flower stems will remain erect well into the winter and, if flower heads are not removed, are often visited by goldfinches who perch on or just below the blackened cones to feed on the seeds. Echinacea comes from the Greek word “echinos” meaning hedgehog in reference to the flower’s spiny center cone.
Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems.
Uses:
Border fronts, rock gardens or part shade areas of open woodland gardens.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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