Tomato Soup Coneflower

Tomato Soup Coneflower (Echinacea 'Tomato Soup')

Tomato Soup Coneflower (Echinacea 'Tomato Soup') is a vigorous, long blooming coneflower prized for its saturated tomato red petals surrounding a warm copper cone on compact, well branched plants. From early summer into fall it delivers bold, sunfast color, sturdy stems, and clean foliage for sunny borders, meadow style plantings, and patio containers.

Distinctive Features

Large, richly pigmented rays hold true red tones in heat and full sun, presenting broad, horizontal petals that read clearly across the garden. Weather resistant stems stand firm in wind and rain, while continuous bud set sustains months of flowers. Nectar rich blooms support bees and butterflies; dried cones add late season texture and natural seed for finches.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for strongest color and bloom; light afternoon shade acceptable in very hot climates.
• Soil: Well drained garden soil; adapts to loam, sandy, or lightly rocky sites and tolerates light clay with good drainage.
• Water: Moderate; water to establish, then allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9.
• Mature Size: Typically 24 to 30 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Intense red daisies create high impact accents in mixed borders.
• Pollinator Gardens: Reliable nectar source for bees and butterflies.
• Cut Flowers: Long lasting petals and sturdy stems for bold arrangements.
• Containers: Upright habit suits patio pots and entry planters.
• Mass Plantings: Plant in drifts for a ribbon of scarlet summer color.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep, infrequent watering once established; avoid chronically wet soils.
• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to extend flowering; leave some late cones for birds.
• Fertilizing: Light spring feeding with slow release fertilizer or compost.
• Staking: Not required; naturally sturdy stems.
• Cleanup: Cut back in late fall or early spring to refresh growth.

Why Choose Tomato Soup Coneflower?

• True Tomato Red: Sunfast color that holds in heat and full sun.
• Extended Bloom: Flowers for months with minimal care.
• Tough and Adaptable: Heat and drought tolerant once established.
• Wildlife Friendly: Supports pollinators and provides winter seed.
• Design Versatility: Pairs with grasses, blues, and silvers in cottage, prairie, or modern schemes.

Echinacea 'Tomato Soup' blends saturated red color with durable, low maintenance performance, creating a pollinator friendly highlight for sunny, well drained sites.