A super-duper explosion of petals distinguishes this unique Echinacea from other varieties. The rose-pink flowers of Echinacea purpurea 'Paradiso Super-Duper' become more double as the season progresses. The earliest open with single ray florets and a frill of short petals emerging from the central boss. They are quickly followed by more extravagant blooms, stacked with multiple layers of petals. 'Paradiso Super-Duper' flowers in its first year, developing into sturdy, upright plants that bloom over a long period and are reliably perennial in a wide range of soils. Good drought tolerance. Height: 80cm (32in). Spread: 45cm (18in).
Sowing Information
Sow Coneflower seed from February to June on the surface of a good seed compost, and cover with a light sprinkling of compost of vermiculite to a depth of 3mm (⅛"). Place in a propagator at a temperature of 21-245C (70-75F) or seal the seed tray inside a polythene bag until after germination, which usually takes 10-21 days. If possible, reduce the soil temperature at night to 18C (65F) during germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged and do not exclude light, as this helps germination.
When Echinacea seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into 7.5cm (3") pots and grow on in cooler conditions. When Coneflower plants are well grown and all risk of frost has passed, gradually acclimatise them to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting outdoors. Plant coneflowers at a distance of 45cm (18") apart in a sunny or semi shaded position on moist, well drained soil. Echinacea plants prefer a deep, fertile soil and will benefit from the addition of some well rotted manure or garden compost to soil, prior to planting.
