Echinacea Laevigata

Description

Echinacea Laevigata is a perennial plant that belongs to the aster family. It is native to the southeastern part of the United States and is commonly known as Smooth Coneflower or Smooth Purple Coneflower. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used to boost the immune system and treat various ailments.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Echinacea Laevigata grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The leaves are long, narrow, and toothed, with a dark green color. The flowers are daisy-like and have a purple or pink color with a cone-shaped center. The plant blooms from June to September and attracts butterflies and bees.

Care Guide

Echinacea Laevigata is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here is a guide to taking care of this plant:

Water

Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged as this can cause root rot.

Fertilization

Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Soil

Echinacea Laevigata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.

Sunlight

Plant Echinacea Laevigata in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. The plant requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive.

Hardiness Zones

Echinacea Laevigata can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Echinacea Laevigata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. The plant can also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide spray.

Habitat

Echinacea Laevigata is native to the southeastern part of the United States, including Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee. It is commonly found in prairies, meadows, and open woods.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Echinacea Laevigata deer resistant?

A: Yes, Echinacea Laevigata is deer resistant.

Q: Can Echinacea Laevigata be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Echinacea Laevigata can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.

Q: How often should Echinacea Laevigata be fertilized?

A: Echinacea Laevigata should be fertilized once a year in the spring.

Q: Can Echinacea Laevigata be propagated through cuttings?

A: Yes, Echinacea Laevigata can be propagated through cuttings or division.

Related Plants

• Echinacea Purpurea
• Echinacea Pallida
• Echinacea Angustifolia
• Echinacea Paradoxa

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Echinacea laevigata. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b451
• Gilman, E. F. (1999). Echinacea laevigata. University of Florida. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FN174
• North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Echinacea laevigata. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/echinacea-laevigata/