General Culture:
Easily grown in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun. This is 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. Although ‘Rubinstern’ may be originally planted from seed (it is a seed variety), it may not come true from self-seeding in the garden.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
‘Rubinstern’ (meaning ruby star) is a purple coneflower seed cultivar that typically grows 2-3’ tall. It features daisy-like coneflowers (to 4” diameter) with carmine red to purple rays and large, pin cushion-like, dark bronze-brown central cones. Flowers bloom from June to August with some sporadic later bloom. Lanceolate, dark green leaves (4-8” long). The dead flower stems will remain erect well into winter and, if flower heads are not removed, are often visited by goldfinches looking for seed. 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. Japanese beetle, powdery mildew and leaf spot are occasional problems.
Uses:
Borders, meadows, cottage gardens, native plant gardens or part shade areas of open woodland gardens.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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