How to Grow Claret Cup Hedgehog
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Claret Cup Hedgehog
Echinacea coccinea 'Claret Cup'
flowerClaret Cup Hedgehog is a striking perennial coneflower cultivar producing deep burgundy-red flowers with prominent orange-red bristly centers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. This native North American wildflower variant blooms mid-summer through fall and is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established. It's a low-maintenance garden staple that provides reliable color and wildlife appeal.
When should you plant Claret Cup Hedgehog in your zone?
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Example Claret Cup Hedgehog timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Claret Cup Hedgehog
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Claret Cup Hedgehog blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Claret Cup Hedgehog dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9, with best performance in zones 5-8
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Seedling
4-6 weeksTiny cotyledons emerge with first true leaves appearing narrow and lance-shaped. Slow growth in first 4-6 weeks.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright indirect light. Avoid damping off by ensuring good air circulation.
Vegetative
6-8 weeksPlant develops robust rosette of dark green, hairy lance-shaped leaves. Root system deepens. Plant grows 6-12 inches tall.
Transition to outdoor conditions gradually if seedlings. Maintain moderate moisture. Begin monthly fertilizer with balanced formula.
Budding
3-4 weeksStiff, sturdy stems elongate to 24-36 inches. Buds form at stem tips, initially green then showing deep claret coloring.
Reduce watering as plant is now drought-tolerant. Support taller varieties if needed. No fertilizer needed.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (June-September)Deep burgundy-red reflexed petals surround prominent spiky orange-red central cones. Multiple flowers per plant over extended period.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Water only during drought. Watch for hummingbirds and pollinators.
Seed Maturation
4-6 weeks through fallPetals drop and prominent seed heads mature. Cone centers dry and bronze, attracting goldfinches and other seed-eating birds.
Leave seed heads standing for wildlife benefit and self-sowing. Cut back in late fall or early spring. Seeds viable for 2-3 years.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick in early morning, use Japanese beetle traps 20+ feet away, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe
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Increase humidity, spray with water to dislodge, use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, avoid excessive heat stress
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Ensure good air circulation, apply sulfur fungicide or baking soda spray, remove affected leaves, avoid wetting foliage
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Use insecticidal soap, reflective mulches to confuse insects, encourage beneficial parasitic wasps
Uses
Herbal tea and wellness
CulinaryEchinacea species have been traditionally used in herbal teas and natural supplements, particularly for immune support. The dried flower petals and roots can be brewed into medicinal tea. [source]
Cut flowers and arrangements
CraftClaret Cup's long stems and distinctive dark red coloring make it excellent for cut flower arrangements, adding drama to bouquets. Flowers last 7-10 days in water when cut in early morning. [source]
Hummingbird and pollinator magnet
WildlifeThe deep red flowers are irresistible to hummingbirds, and the nectar and pollen attract numerous bee species and butterflies. The seed heads provide fall and winter food for goldfinches and other birds. [source]
Dried flower arrangements
HouseholdThe distinctive seed cones retain their ornamental appeal when dried and are popular in dried arrangements, wreaths, and decorative displays year-round. [source]
Traditional Native American use
MedicinalNative American tribes used Echinacea species traditionally for various medicinal purposes, and the plant remains popular in herbalism and natural health practices. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers for arrangements in early morning when fully open. Cut stems at least 6-8 inches long. Use a sharp, clean knife. For seed collection, allow flower heads to dry completely on plant in fall, then collect seed heads and dry further indoors. Deadhead regularly during bloom season to promote continuous flowering.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Echinacea coccinea is native to the central United States and was traditionally used by Plains tribes; the name 'hedgehog coneflower' derives from the spiky central disk resembling a hedgehog.
- 🌱 Unlike purple coneflower (E. purpurea), the red coneflower attracts different hummingbird species and is particularly favored by ruby-throated hummingbirds in eastern gardens.
- 🌱 Claret Cup's deep burgundy coloring deepens in cool fall temperatures, often becoming more intense in September and October due to anthocyanin pigment production.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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