Echinacea purpurea ‘Pretty Parasols’

Description

Echinacea purpurea ‘Pretty Parasols’ is a striking perennial loved for its strong, upright stems and succession of parasol-shaped blooms in soft bi-coloured shades. With its ability to attract bees and butterflies, this hardy coneflower is an excellent choice for borders, cottage-style gardens, and wildlife-friendly spaces. Follow this planting and aftercare guide to help your plant thrive.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The best time to plant Echinacea purpurea ‘Pretty Parasols’ is in spring when the soil is beginning to warm, allowing the roots to establish before flowering.

• Autumn: Planting in early autumn also works well, giving the perennial time to settle in and prepare for vigorous growth the following year.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choose a site in full sun to encourage strong stems and a long flowering season. Echinacea will also tolerate light partial shade.

• Soil: Plant in well-drained soil enriched with compost or organic matter. Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root development.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball.

2. Soil preparation: Mix compost into the planting area to improve fertility and structure.

3. Planting: Place Echinacea purpurea ‘Pretty Parasols’ in the hole so the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill and firm gently.

4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and help the roots establish.

Watering Requirements

• During the growing season, water deeply during dry spells but allow the soil to dry slightly between sessions.

• Once established, Echinacea is drought-tolerant and requires only occasional watering.

Feeding

• In spring, apply a balanced fertiliser to support vigorous growth.

• A mid-summer feed can extend the blooming season, ensuring Echinacea purpurea ‘Pretty Parasols’ produces its pretty parasol-shaped flowers over a long period.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to encourage fresh flowers and prolong the season.

• Autumn: Cut back stems to ground level after flowering has finished to prepare the plant for dormancy.

Mulching

• In spring, mulch around the base of Echinacea purpurea ‘Pretty Parasols’ with compost or bark chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

• Refresh the mulch in winter to help protect the roots.

Supporting the Plant

The strong stems of Echinacea purpurea ‘Pretty Parasols’ usually stand well without support, even in breezy locations. Staking is rarely required.

Final Tips

Echinacea purpurea ‘Pretty Parasols’ is a low-maintenance, hardy perennial that rewards with months of colour and pollinator activity. By planting it in full sun, ensuring good soil drainage, and following these care tips, you’ll enjoy its distinctive bi-coloured blooms year after year.

RHS Details

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