Echinacea purpurea ‘Little Magnus’

Description

Echinacea purpurea ‘Little Magnus’ is a compact, perennial coneflower with purple-pink daisy-like blooms and a dark orange central cone. Growing to 45cm tall with a 30cm spread, it flowers from July to September, attracting bees and butterflies while thriving in full sun with well-drained soil. Hardy and low-maintenance, it’s perfect for borders, containers, and pollinator-friendly gardens.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Echinacea purpurea ‘Little Magnus’ in spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows roots to establish firmly for vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
• Autumn: Alternatively, plant in early autumn to allow Echinacea purpurea ‘Little Magnus’ to settle before dormancy and promote strong growth in the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Echinacea thrives in full sun. Choose a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to encourage strong stems and vibrant blooms.
• Soil: Ensure well-drained soil for your Echinacea. Avoid waterlogged areas, as this can cause root rot. Improve soil fertility by mixing in compost or organic matter.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball of the plant.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost into the soil to enhance fertility and drainage.
3. Planting: Place your Echinacea in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface. Backfill gently and firm the soil to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help the plant settle and encourage root establishment.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Echinacea purpurea ‘Little Magnus’ is moderately drought-tolerant. Water during dry spells, letting the soil dry slightly between sessions.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly during dormancy, only watering if the soil becomes extremely dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support new growth and vibrant flowers for Echinacea purpurea ‘Little Magnus’.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding can prolong flowering and maintain plant vigour.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering ends, cut your Echinacea back to ground level to prepare for dormancy and healthier growth next season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Supporting the Plant

• Echinacea purpurea ‘Little Magnus’ is compact with sturdy stems, so staking is rarely necessary. In windy areas, stake to prevent damage.

Final Tips

Echinacea purpurea ‘Little Magnus’ is a low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly perennial that adds vibrant colour to any garden. By planting it in full sun with well-drained soil and following this care routine, this Echinacea will provide continuous blooms from July to September, attracting bees and butterflies and enhancing your outdoor space.

RHS Details

See more Echinacea from Proctors