Oregon Sunshine Eriophyllum lanatum
ABOUT
Eriophyllum lanatum, commonly known as Oregon sunshine or woolly sunflower, is a perennial plant notable for its cheerful yellow flowers that emit a warm, sunshine-like appearance. These bright blooms typically have a daisy-like structure, featuring a central disc surrounded by rays of petals that fan outward. The flowers are borne atop stems which can vary in length, arising out of a basal clump of foliage. The leaves of Oregon sunshine are equally distinctive, with a soft, hairy texture that gives the foliage a woolly or fuzzy look and feel. This characteristic is reflected in the species name "lanatum," which means "woolly" in Latin. The leaves are typically gray-green to silver in color, which adds to the plant's overall silvery appearance and is an adaptation to help reflect sunlight and conserve water. Overall, Oregon sunshine is a hardy plant that thrives in various conditions and is often found in dry, open areas where it contributes to the native landscape with its resilient nature and attractive blossoms that are highly appealing to pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its woolly features and radiant flowers make it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers seeking to introduce a touch of enduring, drought-tolerant brilliance to their plantings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Oregon Sunshine, Common Woolly Sunflower, Woolly Sunflower, Woolly Daisy.
Common names
Actinella lanata, Antheropeas lanatum, Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. lanatum, Eriophyllum lanatum var. achilleoides, Eriophyllum lanatum var. grandiflorum, Eriophyllum lanatum var. integrifolium.
ToxicityTo humans
Oregon Sunshine is not commonly listed as a plant with significant toxicity to humans. Most sources do not report it as being poisonous, and it is often used in ornamental gardens without specific warnings regarding human ingestion. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could occur, and it's generally advisable not to eat plants not commonly recognized as food without proper identification and knowledge of their edibility and potential effects.
To pets
Oregon Sunshine is not widely known to be toxic to pets. There is limited information on its toxicity to domestic animals such as dogs and cats, and it is likewise used in gardens where pets might roam. However, the absence of widespread reports of toxicity does not guarantee that the plant is completely safe, so it's best for pet owners to monitor their animals and prevent them from ingesting large quantities of this or any ornamental plant. If you suspect your pet has ingested any plant material and is showing unusual symptoms, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Eriophyllum lanatum, commonly known as Oregon sunshine, draws in bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Oregon sunshine is highly tolerant of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Native Plant Advantages: As a native plant, it is adapted to local climates and soil conditions, often requiring less maintenance and resources than non-native plants.
- Erosion Control: Its root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Habitat Creation: Provides shelter and food sources for various wildlife, including insects and birds.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Oregon sunshine has bright yellow flowers and woolly foliage that contribute visual interest and texture to landscapes and wildflower gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Generally requires minimal care once established, apart from occasional deadheading to promote prolonged blooming.
Medical Properties- Antibacterial: Eriophyllum lanatum is traditionally used for its antibacterial properties in some cultures.
- Wound Healing: The plant has been used in the form of poultices to aid in the healing of wounds.
- Anti-inflammatory: Some sources suggest the plant may possess anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce inflammation.
- Analgesic: There is some indication that Eriophyllum lanatum may have been used for its pain-relieving effects.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Eriophyllum lanatum, commonly known as Oregon sunshine, can be used as a dye source. The flowers and stems contain natural pigments that can dye fabrics a range of warm, yellow hues.
- In gardening, Oregon sunshine is employed for xeriscaping, a landscaping method that reduces or eliminates the need for irrigation by using drought-resistant plants.
- The plant is often used in ecological restoration projects to stabilize soil and prevent erosion due to its hardy and low-maintenance nature.
- As a companion plant, Oregon sunshine can benefit adjacent plants by attracting beneficial insects such as pollinators while simultaneously repelling some pests.
- The plant's visually appealing flowers are used in floral arrangements, both fresh and dried, bringing a bright splash of color to bouquets.
- Its ability to thrive in poor soil makes it a useful species for reclaiming disturbed sites, such as those that have been mined or overgrazed.
- Oregon sunshine is sometimes incorporated into permaculture designs for its robustness, ability to support beneficial insects, and low maintenance needs.
- The woolly textures of the plant’s foliage can be used to add textural contrast in textile art, such as wool felting or mixed-media projects.
- In landscape photography, the plant's vivid yellow blossoms serve as an excellent foreground subject to contrast against various backdrops, promoting natural aesthetics.
- Lastly, Oregon sunshine is occasionally used in educational settings, such as school gardens or biology classes, to teach students about native plants and their ecological roles.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Oregon Sunshine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Oregon Sunshine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Commonly known as Oregon Sunshine, Eriophyllum lanatum demonstrates resilience as it thrives in harsh, rocky environments and drought conditions, symbolizing the ability to endure and prosper through tough circumstances.
- Adaptability: Oregon Sunshine has the ability to adapt to a variety of soil types and environmental conditions, which can be seen as a representation of flexibility and the capacity to adjust to different situations in life.
- Brightness: With its sunny yellow flowers, Oregon Sunshine can represent cheerfulness, positivity, and the spread of joy, much like how its vibrant blooms bring color to its native landscapes.
- Healing: Traditionally, some indigenous people have used Eriophyllum lanatum in medicinal remedies, which imbues the plant with symbolic meaning related to healing and the soothing of ailments.
- Warmth: The yellow color of its flowers, reminiscent of sunshine, connotes warmth and the nurturing aspect of sunlight, offering a sense of comfort and energy.
WaterOregon sunshine, the common name for Eriophyllum lanatum, requires moderate watering. It should be watered deeply but infrequently to mimic its native habitat conditions. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Typically, watering once every 7 to 10 days should suffice, adjusting for rainfall and changes in temperature. Each watering should provide enough water to soak the roots, which usually amounts to about 1 gallon for established plants in medium-sized pots.
LightOregon sunshine prefers full sun to partial shade. The ideal location would be a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, while also providing partial afternoon shade in areas with very intense sunlight. Bright light promotes the best flowering and dense foliage growth.
TemperatureOregon sunshine thrives in a range of temperature conditions. It can survive minimum temperatures down to 10°F but prefers a more comfortable range between 60°F and 75°F. Avoid exposing the plant to prolonged periods of frost or excessively high temperatures above 90°F as these conditions may harm the plant.
PruningOregon sunshine benefits from occasional pruning to maintain a compact, attractive shape and to promote vigorous growth. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring, removing any dead or damaged stems and shaping the plant as desired. Prune no more than one-third of the growth to ensure the plant remains healthy, and always use clean, sharp tools for clean cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilOregon Sunshine (Eriophyllum lanatum) thrives in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. A mixture of sand, loamy soil, and compost is ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
RepottingOregon Sunshine (Eriophyllum lanatum) does not commonly need frequent repotting. It should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container to allow for continued growth and to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingOregon Sunshine (Eriophyllum lanatum) prefers low to moderate humidity levels, typical of its native dry meadow habitat. High humidity should be avoided as it may promote fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Oregon Sunshine in a bright, sunny spot inside.
Outdoor
Plant Oregon Sunshine in full sun with good drainage.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleEriophyllum lanatum, commonly known as Oregon sunshine or woolly sunflower, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in late winter or early spring when soil temperatures and moisture levels are suitable. The seedling, characterized by a rosette of basal leaves, initially develops a taproot system which allows the plant to establish itself and access nutrients and moisture from the soil. As it grows, Eriophyllum lanatum enters the vegetative stage where it develops woolly, gray-green leaves and a branching stem, preparing to support the reproductive structures. The flowering stage occurs typically in late spring to early summer, where the plant produces clusters of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that attract a variety of pollinators necessary for sexual reproduction. Following pollination, the plant forms seeds encased in dry, indehiscent fruits known as achenes, which will disperse to form new plants, thus completing the lifecycle. As a perennial, the above-ground parts of the plant may die back in the winter, but the roots can survive to sprout again for multiple growing seasons.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Oregon Sunshine, or Eriophyllum lanatum, is by seed. The ideal time to sow the seeds is either in fall or early spring. To propagate by seed, you would typically scatter the seeds directly onto a prepared garden bed or start them indoors in seed trays with a well-draining soil mix. If starting indoors, the seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until germination, which usually occurs within two to four weeks. After the seedlings have grown and the risk of frost has passed, you can transplant them to their final growing location, ensuring they are spaced at least a foot apart to accommodate their mature size.
