Echinacea DARK SHADOWS™ ‘Wicked’
Overview
Uses: Bold focal points in perennial beds, pollinator gardens, mixed perennial borders, front-of-border accents, and statement container plantings.
Benefits: Distinctive watermelon-pink blooms are held on naturally brown stems, creating strong color contrast in the landscape. Reliable summer flowering, sturdy branching, and consistent performance make this variety a standout for structure and seasonal color.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
Sun: Full Sun
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Upright, Clumping — sturdy branching stems.
Bloom Color: Watermelon Pink
Mature Height: 18–24 inches
Mature Width: 20–26 inches
Bloom Season: Early Summer to Fall
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
DARK SHADOWS™ ‘Wicked’ pairs saturated watermelon-pink petals with deep brown stems for a bold, high-contrast look in sunny gardens.
The open-centered blooms surround a dark cone and hold their color well through the season. Strong stems keep flowers upright in summer heat, while steady rebloom extends interest into early fall. This coneflower blends well with ornamental grasses, silver foliage, and other full-sun perennials.
Care
DARK SHADOWS™ ‘Wicked’ Care
Plant in full sun for strongest flowering and compact growth. Provide at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Grow in well-drained soil. Coneflowers tolerate sandy or rocky soils but should not sit in consistently wet conditions.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Established plants tolerate periods of heat and moderate drought.
Apply a spring application of slow release fertilizer to support consistent bloom production.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Seed heads may be left standing for winter interest and bird activity, then cut back in late winter or early spring.
Size
What Size is the Echinacea DARK SHADOWS™ ‘Wicked’ for Sale Online?
Plants ship in healthy, greenhouse-grown containers sized appropriately for their growth stage. For specific sizing details, contact us.
How Large Does Echinacea DARK SHADOWS™ ‘Wicked’ Grow?
Mature plants typically reach 18–24 inches tall and 20–26 inches wide, forming a sturdy, upright clump.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
This plant is commonly known as coneflower or purple coneflower, referring to the distinctive raised central cone surrounded by colorful petals.
What makes DARK SHADOWS™ ‘Wicked’ unique?
The combination of watermelon-pink petals and naturally brown stems creates noticeable contrast not commonly found in other coneflower varieties.
Is it suitable for pollinator gardens?
Yes. The open-centered blooms attract bees and butterflies and pair well with other perennials selected for wildlife-friendly landscapes.
Does it perform well in summer heat?
This variety maintains bloom quality and sturdy stems during hot, sunny conditions when provided with well-drained soil.
Is it good for cutting gardens?
The long, sturdy stems and saturated flower color make it suitable for fresh arrangements.
How does it compare to other coneflower series?
DARK SHADOWS™ selections emphasize stem contrast and saturated bloom color, offering a different visual effect than more compact or color-shifting series.
