Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit

Description

Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit is a stunning and popular perennial flower known for its bright and colorful blooms that can range from red, orange, yellow, purple, and pink. This plant is a hybrid of different Echinacea species and was introduced in 2012. It can grow up to 24-30 inches tall and 18-24 inches wide, making it a great choice for borders, containers, or as a cut flower.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit has large and showy flowers that can reach up to 5 inches in diameter. Each flower has a prominent central cone surrounded by ray petals that can be either single or double. The colors of the petals can vary depending on the maturity of the flower, with the younger ones being more vibrant and the older ones fading into pastel shades. The foliage is also attractive, with lance-shaped leaves that can be up to 6 inches long and green in color. The plant blooms from midsummer to early fall.

Care Guide

Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it still requires some attention to ensure its optimal growth and health.

• Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can cause the plant to wilt and stress.
• Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once or twice per growing season, following the package instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
• Soil: Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit thrives in loamy or sandy soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve its texture and fertility.
• Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Too much shade can cause weak stems and fewer blooms.
• Hardiness Zones: Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, which cover most of the United States except for the extreme north and south.

Common Pests & Diseases

Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but some issues may arise under certain conditions.

• Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and deformation. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Spider mites: These arachnids can spin webs on the plant, leading to yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use a miticide or insecticidal soap to eliminate them.
• Fungal diseases: Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent them, avoid overhead watering, space the plants properly, and remove any infected foliage.

Habitat

Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit is native to North America, where it grows in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade and drought. It attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, and its seeds are a food source for birds.

Question and Answer

• Q: How long does Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit live?
• A: Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit is a perennial plant, meaning it can live for several years if properly cared for. It may go dormant in winter and come back in spring.
• Q: Can I divide Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit?
• A: Yes, you can divide Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit every 3-4 years in early spring or fall. Use a sharp knife or shovel to separate the clumps and replant them in a new location or container.
• Q: How tall does Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit grow?
• A: Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit can grow up to 24-30 inches tall and 18-24 inches wide, depending on the growing conditions and the maturity of the plant.
• Q: Is Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit deer-resistant?
• A: Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit is considered deer-resistant, meaning it is less likely to be eaten by deer than other plants. However, in times of severe hunger or drought, deer may still browse on it.

Related Plants

• Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower)
• Echinacea pallida (Pale Purple Coneflower)
• Echinacea angustifolia (Narrow-leaved Coneflower)
• Echinacea tennesseensis (Tennessee Coneflower)
• Echinacea paradoxa (Yellow Coneflower)

References

• Gardenia. (n.d.). Echinacea ‘Cheyenne Spirit’ (Coneflower). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/echinacea-cheyenne-spirit-coneflower
• BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. (2021, January 2). How to grow Echinacea ‘Cheyenne Spirit’. Retrieved from https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-echinacea-cheyenne-spirit/
• University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. (n.d.). Cheyenne Spirit Coneflower. Retrieved from https://wimastergardener.org/article/cheyenne-spirit-coneflower-echinacea-cheyenne-spirit/