Echibeckia: Intergeneric Cross

The new kid on the block is called Echibeckia, a cross between a Rudbeckia and an Echinacea. Will we love it or not, we shall see! The theory is that they are supposed to grow fast like a Rudbeckia but have the hardiness of Echinacea. All the information boasts a long bloom time, 2-3 months, with 3-inch, self-cleaning, sterile flowers. The height is 25-36 inches and the plant is hardy to zone 6. At this time there are three varieties on the market: Summerina 'Brown Turin,' "Orange Turin,' and " Yellow Patio. (See below)


As you can see in the pictures, the Summerina Brown Turin and Orange Turin are very close in bloom coloration. It would be hard to tell them apart without the label.

The Echibeckia plants seem to be sturdy plants that will not need support, unlike so many Echinaceas and Rubeckias. It will be interesting to see how they do in the garden, as these plants have been greenhouse grown. Here is a side view of the plant structure.

Echibeckia, Rudbeckia 'Early Bird Gold,' Echinacea
Another interesting attribute is the fuzzy leaves and stems on the Echibeckia. Seems as if the slugs are not interested in this plant, but the test will be the new growth emerging in spring.


Over the course of a month I have been watching these plants at a local nursery and I finally broke down and bought them. What I noticed over this time is that the 'Brown Turin' bloomed first, then the 'Orange Turin,' and then finally the 'Yellow Patio.' The flowers have held their color and structure well over this time and are still beautiful as I write this article. In all my searching on the Internet I have not come across the particular cultivars that were crossed, but maybe that is an industry secret.


Can you pick out the one 'Brown Turin in the first picture? 'Yellow Patio' and 'Orange Turin' at the nursery