Elegbede Bukola Funmilade

P21PHPP7002

Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science

Department of Pharmacy
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

ASSIGNMENT

Course: PGDPC711

Lecturer: Prof. A. Ahmed

Question:

 Select one medicinal plant and describe how it is cultivated, stating all conditions required

for its development.

ECHINACEA

The Echinacea Plant (Coneflower)

Introduction

Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family

(Asteraceae). The genus is native to eastern and central North America and includes nine species

of herbaceous perennials.

Echinacea plants typically grow to a height of 2-4 feet (60-120 cm) and have a clumping growth

habit. The leaves are usually lance-shaped or ovate.

It flowers are daisy-like, with a prominent central cone surrounded by petals that range in color

from pink and purple to white, orange, or yellow. The blooming season typically occurs from

early summer to early fall and they are mostly hardy in nature.

Echinacea has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries and is commonly used today as an

herbal remedy to boost the immune system and treat colds and flu. It is also used in cosmetic

products for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Echinacea is also a popular plant

for gardeners due to its attractive flowers that can be used in bouquets and arrangements.
Echinacea is promoted as a dietary supplement for the common cold and other infections, based

on the idea that it might stimulate the immune system to more effectively fight infection.

Echinacea preparations have been promoted for topical use (application to the skin) for wounds

and skin problems. Several species of echinacea, most commonly Echinacea purpurea or

Echinacea angustifolia, may be included in dietary supplements.

Benefits of Echinacea

Echinacea has several potential health benefits:

 Boosts the immune system: Echinacea is believed to stimulate the immune system,

helping to fight off infections and other illnesses.

 May reduce inflammation: Echinacea contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory

properties, which may help reduce inflammation and associated pain.

 May help treat upper respiratory infections: Echinacea is commonly used to treat colds,

flu, and other upper respiratory infections.

 May lower blood sugar levels: Echinacea may help regulate blood sugar levels in people

with type 2 diabetes.

 May have anti-cancer properties: Some studies have found that Echinacea extracts may

have anti-cancer properties.

Time of Cultivation.

Echinacea is a hardy perennial plant that can be planted in either the spring or the fall.

It’s best to plant coneflowers in the spring after the last frost date. This will give the plant

enough time to establish itself before the colder weather sets in. Coneflowers can also be planted

in the fall. This will give the plant time to establish itself before the heat of summer, which can

be stressful for the plant.

Conditions required for Cultivation.

 Sunlight: Echinacea requires full sun, meaning it needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct

sunlight per day. Although it can tolerate some partial shade, but may not grow and

flower as well in such conditions.

 Soil: Echinacea prefers well-draining, fertile soil. They can thrive in a variety of soil

types, including sandy, rocky, and clay soils. Echinacea can tolerate a range of soil pH

levels but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.

 Location: Echinacea is a versatile plant that can be planted in a variety of locations. It is

often planted in flower beds, borders, or as a focal point in mixed perennial plantings.

Echinacea is also a great choice for rock gardens or wildflower meadows.

How to Cultivate

The following are the steps for cultivating Echinacea;

 Prepare the soil by removing weeds and rocks and working in compost or other organic

matter to improve soil fertility and drainage.

 Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant. Space the plants about 18-

24 inches (45-60 cm) apart to allow for their clumping growth habit.

 Carefully remove the plant from its container and gently loosen any tangled roots. Place

the plant in the hole, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding

soil.

 Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the plant to remove any air pockets

and water the plant thoroughly.

Maintaining the Echinacea Plant

Echinacea is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established.

Below are steps for maintaining the plant;

 Watering: Echinacea is drought-tolerant once established, but it's important to water the

plant regularly during the first growing season to help it establish itself. After that, it may

only need watering during extended periods of drought.

 Fertilizing: Echinacea generally does not require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-

release fertilizer in the spring if desired. Too much fertilizer can cause them to become

leggy.

 Deadheading: Deadheading the flowers regularly will encourage additional blooms and

prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively.

 Pruning: Cut back the plant to the ground in the fall after the first hard frost. This will

help prevent disease and prepare the plant for new growth in the spring.

 Division: Echinacea can be divided every 3-4 years in the spring or fall to maintain plant

health and promote better flowering.

 Winter protection: Echinacea is generally hardy in most climates but can benefit from a

layer of mulch or other winter protection in cold climates to prevent frost heaving and

other winter damage.

Mode of Propagation

Echinacea can be propagated by seed, division, or cuttings. Below is a brief overview of each

propagation method:

 Seed propagation: Collect the seeds from the spent flower heads after they have dried on

the plant. Sow the seeds indoors in the early spring or directly in the garden in the fall.
 Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep them moist until they germinate. Seed

propagation is the easiest and most economical way to propagate Echinacea, but it can

take longer for the plants to mature.

 Division: Echinacea can be divided every 3-4 years in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant

and carefully separate the root clump into several smaller pieces, making sure each piece

has several healthy roots and some foliage. Replant the divisions in their new location,

making sure to water them well.

 Cuttings: Take stem cuttings in the late spring or early summer from non-flowering

stems. Cut 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) sections of stem, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut

end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in moist soil or potting mix and keep them in a

warm, bright location until they have rooted.

Pests and Diseases

Echinacea is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to a few pests

and diseases. Below are some common pests and diseases that can affect Echinacea:

 Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white or gray powder on the leaves

and stems of the plant. It can be prevented by providing good air circulation, avoiding

overhead watering, and planting Echinacea in a location with full sun to partial shade.

 Leaf spot: This fungal disease appears as small, circular spots on the leaves of the plant.

It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and removing any infected leaves.

 Root rot: This fungal disease can occur in poorly draining soil or if the plant is

overwatered. It can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining and not allowing

the plant to sit in standing water.

 Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be found on the stems and leaves of the

plant. They can be removed with a strong stream of water or treated with insecticidal

soap.

 Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause leaves to appear stippled or discolored. They

can be removed with a strong stream of water or treated with insecticidal soap.
 REFRENCES
Echinacea (Coneflower) 2022, accessed 18 July 2022,
https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/echinacea-coneflowers