Coneflower ‘Magnus’

Echinacea purpurea ‘Magnus’

Characteristics

Culture

Coneflower ‘Magnus’ is easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Although, it does best when planted 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. Coneflower ‘Magnus’ freely self-seeds if at least some of the seed heads are left in place.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Echinacea purpurea, commonly called purple coneflower, is a coarse, rough-hairy, herbaceous perennial that is native to moist prairies, meadows and open woods of the central to southeastern United States (Ohio to Michigan to Iowa south to Louisiana and Georgia). It typically grows to 2-4′ tall. Showy daisy-like purple coneflowers (to 5″ diameter) bloom throughout summer atop stiff stems clad with coarse, ovate to broad-lanceolate, dark green leaves. Good fresh cut or dried flower. The dead flower stems will remain erect well into the winter, and if flower heads are not removed, the blackened cones may be visited by goldfinches or other birds that feed on the seeds.

Echinacea purpurea ‘Magnus’ was the 1998 Perennial Plant Association’s Plant of the Year. It has extra-large pink flowers. Where classic coneflower’s petals point down, Magnus’ are held more horizontally.

Problems

Japanese beetle and leaf spot are occasional problems. Susceptible to aster yellows disease.

Garden Uses

Excellent, long-blooming flower for massing in the border, meadow, native plant garden, naturalized area, wildflower garden or part shade area of woodland garden.  A long-lasting cut flower.