Outback Sunrise' Emu Bush

Plant Type: evergreen groundcover shrub
Plant Height: 1–2 feet
Spread: 4–6 feet
Flower Color: bright yellow
Sun Exposure: Full sun

‘Outback Sunrise’ Emu Bush (Eremophila prostrata): Low-Growing, Long-Blooming Groundcover

‘Outback Sunrise’ Emu Bush is a hardy Australian native known for its bright yellow blooms, low, spreading habit, and outstanding drought tolerance. Perfect for covering large areas with minimal water, it brings months of cheerful color to Arizona landscapes.

Key Features of ‘Outback Sunrise’ Emu Bush

• Extended Bloom Period: Produces masses of bright yellow flowers from spring into fall, with peak blooms in warmer months.
• Groundcover Form: Low, spreading habit quickly fills in bare areas and helps with erosion control.
• Drought Tolerant: Once established, thrives with very little supplemental water.
• Low Maintenance: Naturally tidy form requires minimal pruning.

Growing and Care Tips

‘Outback Sunrise’ Emu Bush excels in hot, sunny, dry conditions and is perfect for large-scale, low-water plantings.

Soil: Prefers sandy or rocky, well-draining soils; amend clay for drainage.
Water: Moderate during establishment; after that, water deeply only every few weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Rarely needed; if desired, use a low-phosphorus fertilizer in spring.
Pruning: Light trimming after flowering can promote fresh growth and a denser shape.

Landscaping Uses

• Groundcover: Excellent for covering slopes, medians, or open areas with vibrant color.
• Borders & Edges: Works well along walkways and driveways.
• Erosion Control: Dense root system helps stabilize soil.
• Wildlife Gardens: Flowers attract pollinators, especially bees.

Summary

‘Outback Sunrise’ Emu Bush delivers a reliable carpet of color and evergreen foliage while requiring minimal care. Its spreading form, heat tolerance, and long blooming season make it a top pick for Arizona xeriscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): ‘Outback Sunrise’ Emu Bush

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for maximum blooms and dense growth.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils preferred.
Spacing: Space 4–6 feet apart for mass plantings.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: None required—naturally forms a low, spreading mat.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deeply water immediately after planting.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to moisten soil 6–8 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 2–3 months with consistent watering and new growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14–21 days during extended heat or drought.
• Winter: Water every 4–6 weeks if no rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 1 emitter 8–12 inches from plant center.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One for younger plants; two for mature spreads.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase in extreme heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for ‘Outback Sunrise’ Emu Bush:

• Soil Check: Let top 3 inches dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: This plant thrives in dry conditions; too much water reduces flowering.
• Mulch: Apply gravel mulch to help conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.