Echinacea purpurea Colourburst Orange - Purple Coneflower

Echinacea 'Colourburst Orange' or Purple Coneflower is a perennial with a particularly long flowering period and a vibrant display. Both in terms of its colour: a very warm and vibrant orange, and its semi-spherical shape that evolves throughout its blooming. It starts with a dense and bushy daisy-shaped flower with a brown centre bordered by green, which then gradually opens up and swells like a cushion, finally elongating its ligules located on the perimeter and releasing them backwards. Afterwards, the achenes (their fruits) take over, much to the delight of the birds that feast on them. This robust plant accompanies us throughout the summer and welcomes autumn with pleasure, thanks in particular to the fresh and dried bouquets it offers us.

Originating from North America, where it has already naturally colonized many states, Echinacea has been with us for many years. Originally, it settles spontaneously in the wild spaces: vast meadows, forest edges, roadsides... As a result, here it is content with any type of soil, any type of climate, and displays a robustness and hardiness that gardeners appreciate. However, it prefers deep, well-drained soils and will establish itself more easily (and therefore withstand drought) if initially placed in moist soil. Note that it may take its time to settle, but then it shows resistance and longevity. It thrives in full sun or under light shade. It requires almost no care, except for the traditional little grooming which consists of removing faded flowers as desired.

This herbaceous perennial, belonging to the Asteraceae family, has an upright and bushy habit. The leaves are deciduous, rather vibrant green, hairy, and quite thick. They are lanceolate, longer and more numerous at the base, but alternate and sparse along the stems. The stems are long, sturdy, and bear large heads measuring 5 to 10cm (2 to 4in) in diameter at their tops. The numerous crossbreedings from which most varieties now originate have multiplied their characteristics. The colours and shapes are abundant. They all consist of a cone-shaped, often brown centre, sometimes cylindrical, which can become very prominent. It is surrounded by ligules, more or less long, arranged in one or more rows, giving it the simple and wise appearance of a large daisy or, on the contrary, that of a tousled pompom. The variations are limitless, and everyone will find their heart's desire among the cultivars now available. Their vibrant hues are essential in all flower beds or even containers. They also actively animate the garden thanks to the pollinators they attract.

The slender habit of 'Colourburst Orange' suggests placing it behind smaller clumps, such as Heucheras or perennial Geraniums. With a height ranging from 40 to 60cm (16 to 24in) and a minimum spread of 35cm (14in), it easily fits between Yarrows and Sneezeweeds. Its orange colour is essential if you want to create a warm ensemble, in the spirit of 'flamboyant summer and autumn'. But its hue will not go unnoticed in a multicoloured ensemble. It enjoys the company of Grasses, responding to their wild appearance, but also alongside Dahlias, enhancing their brilliance.