Orange Coneflower

Orange Coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida var. fulgida)

Orange Coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida var. fulgida) is a classic, native perennial known for its vibrant golden-yellow petals and distinctive dark brown centers. This reliable summer bloomer adds bold color, refined texture, and an ecological focal point to borders, meadows, and pollinator-friendly landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Rudbeckia fulgida var. fulgida' produces masses of daisy-like golden-yellow blooms from mid-summer through early fall, providing weeks of vibrant color. The dark, cone-shaped centers contrast beautifully with the bright petals, attracting a wide array of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. As the season progresses, the seed heads provide a valuable food source for birds. This variety forms upright clumps of lance-shaped green foliage, offering structure and texture to garden beds. Its natural resilience and adaptability make it a favorite for naturalized plantings and wildflower gardens.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun; requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil but tolerates poor or dry conditions.
• Water: Requires moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established.
• Humidity: Tolerates a range of humidity levels.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9, adaptable to various temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
• Bird Gardens: Seed heads provide food for birds in fall and winter.
• Naturalized Plantings: Ideal for meadows, prairies, and wildflower landscapes.
• Cut Flower Gardens: Bright, long-lasting blooms are excellent for arrangements.
• Border Plantings: Provides a bold, colorful display along garden edges.

Low Maintenance Care

Orange Coneflower is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial that thrives with minimal care once established.

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming and maintain tidy growth.
• Fertilizing: Minimal fertilization is required; apply compost in early spring if desired.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Resistant to deer and most common pests; foliage may develop mildew in overly wet conditions.
• Winter Care: Leave seed heads for winter interest and wildlife food; cut back dead foliage in early spring.

Why Choose Black-Eyed Susan?

Orange Coneflower offers vibrant color, pollinator support, and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for naturalized and pollinator-friendly landscapes.

• Golden-Yellow Blooms: Provides bold color from mid-summer through early fall.
• Wildlife Support: Attracts pollinators and provides seed for birds.
• Drought Tolerant: Thrives with minimal watering once established.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little care and adapts to various soil conditions.
• Deer Resistant: Foliage is unappealing to browsing animals.

For bold summer color, pollinator support, and reliable garden performance, Orange Coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida var. fulgida) is an exceptional focal point choice for naturalized and pollinator-friendly landscapes.