Coneflower Echinacea 'Sunrise' (PBR) (Big Sky Series)
ABOUT
Echinacea 'Sunrise' (PBR) from the Big Sky Series is a visually striking perennial known for its large, daisy-like flowers. The blooms have a distinctive, soft yellow hue that gently fades to a creamier tone towards the petal edges. These petals radiate around a prominent, raised central cone that is typically a golden to bronze color, giving the flower a cheerful and sunny appearance that lends the plant its name. The central cone is not only attractive but also attracts butterflies and other pollinators, adding to the plant's garden value. The leaves of Echinacea 'Sunrise' are deep green, with a rough texture that is characteristic of the genus. The foliage forms a stable and attractive backdrop for the bold flowers. The stems are sturdy and straight, holding the flowers aloft so they can create a pleasing display in borders or as cut flowers in arrangements. Overall, the plant exhibits a robust and healthy constitution, being tolerant of a variety of growing conditions and resistant to many of the pests and diseases that affect less hardy species. The effect of this Echinacea in the landscape is one of warmth and vibrancy, contributing to its popularity in gardens and landscaping designs where a touch of warm color is desired.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Sunrise Coneflower, Big Sky Sunrise Coneflower
Common names
Echinacea 'Sunrise' (PBR) (Big Sky Series)
ToxicityTo humans
Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is not generally considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting Echinacea. As with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may occur, so it is always wise to be cautious when trying any new plant for the first time.
To pets
Coneflower is also generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. However, while not poisonous, ingestion of large amounts of the plant material may potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, due to the general nature of plant material being indigestible or irritating to some pets. If you suspect your pet has consumed a significant amount of Echinacea and is showing adverse symptoms, it is best to consult your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Echinacea 'Sunrise' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, which is vital for the pollination of many plants and the health of the ecosystem.
- Drought tolerant: Once established, it requires minimal watering, making it a great addition to sustainable, water-efficient gardens.
- Easy to grow: It is known for being a hardy plant that can easily be grown in a variety of soil types, including poor soil, as long as it is well-drained.
- Long blooming season: This variety offers a long blooming period from early to late summer, providing continuous color in the garden.
- Low maintenance: It does not require much care beyond the initial establishment phase, making it ideal for gardeners of all levels.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its bright yellow coneflowers, Echinacea 'Sunrise' offers aesthetic value to any garden, blending well with a variety of other plants.
- Resilient to pests: It is generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
- Supports biodiversity: As a native plant to North America, it plays a role in supporting local wildlife and plant diversity.
- Deer resistant: Echinacea 'Sunrise' is not a preferred food source for deer, which helps to prevent damage to the plant in areas frequented by these animals.
Medical Properties- Immune System Support: Echinacea is commonly used to support the immune system and reduce the symptoms of colds and flu.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: The plant contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for conditions like arthritis.
- Antioxidant Activity: Echinacea contains antioxidants that can help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.
- Wound Healing: Some traditional use of Echinacea includes topical application to help heal wounds and skin problems.
- Antimicrobial Effects: The plant has shown some potential in fighting bacteria, viruses, and other microbes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Adding Vibrancy to Floral Art: The Echinacea 'Sunrise' can be dried and included in decorative floral arrangements, where its structure and color adds a long-lasting vibrancy.
- Companion Planting: This Echinacea variety can attract beneficial insects like butterflies and bees, which can help pollinate nearby vegetable and fruit crops in a garden.
- Photography: As an aesthetically pleasing plant, Echinacea 'Sunrise' serves as an excellent subject for nature photography, providing a dynamic, colorful focus.
- Educational Tool: In schools or educational gardens, Echinacea 'Sunrise' can be grown to teach students about plant lifecycles, native flora, and pollinator attracting techniques.
- Natural Fabric Dyes: The petals can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, offering hues of light yellow or green depending on the mordant used.
- Garden Theming: Echinacea 'Sunrise' can be used as a thematic element in a ‘sunrise’ or ‘dawn’ themed garden, for a display that captures the warm colors of daybreak.
- Culinary Garnish: The fresh or dried petals of Echinacea 'Sunrise' can be sprinkled as a colorful garnish on salads and desserts for an added visual flair.
- Eco-friendly Confetti: Dried petals of the Echinacea 'Sunrise' plant can be used as a biodegradable alternative to traditional paper confetti at outdoor events.
- Creative Crafts: The sturdy stems and attractive flower heads can be incorporated into craft projects such as wreaths, pressed flower art, or homemade potpourri.
- Ice Cubes for Entertaining: Freeze small Echinacea 'Sunrise' petals in ice cubes to create an eye-catching element in drinks for parties or special occasions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Coneflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Coneflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Immunity and Health: Echinacea 'Sunrise' is commonly known as coneflower, and echinacea, in general, is esteemed for its medicinal properties, especially its ability to boost the immune system.
- Strength and Resilience: As a hardy plant that can withstand tough conditions, the coneflower represents strength and the ability to cope with adversity.
- Healing: Known for its healing properties, both in traditional and modern medicine, the coneflower symbolizes the power of nature to heal and restore.
- Beauty: With its striking yellow petals, the 'Sunrise' variety of coneflower also signifies natural beauty and a joyous presence in gardens.
- Integrity: Coneflowers have a sturdy central cone, which is thought to represent integrity and a strong moral compass.
WaterConeflower 'Sunrise' prefers even moisture but can tolerate some drought once established. The best watering method is to provide a deep soaking allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Typically, watering about one inch per week either through rainfall or manual watering is adequate. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water twice a week. It's important to avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant.
LightConeflower 'Sunrise' thrives in full sun, which means it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. An ideal spot would be an open area free from shadows cast by trees or buildings. However, it can also tolerate some light shade, especially in areas with intense afternoon sun.
TemperatureConeflower 'Sunrise' is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit and is comfortable in summer temperatures well into the 90s. The ideal growing temperature for optimal growth and flowering is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningConeflower 'Sunrise' should be pruned to remove spent flowers throughout the blooming season to encourage more blooms. It's also beneficial to cut back the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth starts, which helps to maintain a tidy appearance and promotes vigorous growth. The best time for major pruning is indeed in the spring, as this allows for easy identification of dead or damaged stems that need removal.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower 'Sunrise' thrives in a soil mix that is well-draining, fertile, and has a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. An ideal soil mixture can be created by combining garden soil with compost and coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage. Maintaining the soil pH in the slightly acidic to neutral range supports optimal nutrient uptake and plant health.
RepottingConeflower 'Sunrise' does not require frequent repotting and can typically be repotted every 3-4 years. It is best to repot in the spring before the onset of the growing season, though they can generally thrive for several years in the same spot if the soil is healthy.
Humidity & MistingConeflower 'Sunrise' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and thrives best in outdoor environments where humidity levels are natural and not controlled. It does not require any special humidity adjustments when grown outdoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use bright, indirect light and well-draining soil for Coneflower 'Sunrise.'
Outdoor
Plant Coneflower 'Sunrise' in full sun and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleEchinacea 'Sunrise' starts its life as a seed, which, when sown, germinates in warm soil. The young seedling then develops into a rosette of leaves close to the ground, focusing on root system establishment. As it matures, the plant begins to send up sturdy stems and produce its characteristic large, daisy-like yellow flowers, usually in the second year after sowing. Following the flowering stage, which attracts pollinators and can last through summer into fall, the plant sets seeds that can be dispersed by wind or wildlife. In the winter, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, with the roots remaining dormant under the soil until the return of favorable conditions in spring. The perennial nature of Echinacea 'Sunrise' allows it to repeat this cycle for several years, with proper care and environmental conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method for propagating Echinacea 'Sunrise' is by division. This process is typically done in the spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the Echinacea clump and gently separate the crowns, ensuring that each new section has a good amount of roots attached. Replant the divisions immediately in well-draining soil, placing them at the same depth they were growing originally. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This straightforward method encourages healthy new growth and is an excellent way to expand your garden or share this beautiful perennial with fellow gardeners.
