Orange coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida)

Orange coneflower

Also known as: Prairie coneflower, Black-eyed susan

Orange coneflower is a flowering perennial plant that grows throughout eastern North America. Its scientific name, Rudbeckia fulgida, comes from a famous naturalist and botanist Linnaeus's own mentor, Olaus Rudbeck, combined with the word for "glistening." Finches are fond of orange coneflower seeds.

Scientific classification

Species

Orange coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

1.2 m

Plant Height

35 cm to 40 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 cm to 6 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Black

Fruit Color

Yellow, Gold, Brown, Orange

Flower Color

Green, Yellow, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Orange coneflower

Distribution of Orange coneflower

Distribution Map

The native range of orange coneflower covers US from Texas to Florida . It has been introduced to several countries in Europe. Its natural habitat includes moist woods, savannas, and swamps. This plant is cultivated in gardens within its native range for its ornamental qualities.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Prairie

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Orange coneflower is a popular perennial prized for its bright, distinctly-shaped flowers and long blooming period. It is used to attract pollinators and is an essential plant in bee and butterfly gardens. Plant it with blanket flowers, lantana, esperanza, hibiscus, and birds of paradise for additional color.

Symbolism

Encouragement and motivation

Name Story

Orange coneflower: Rudbeckia flowers feature a prominent, elevated central disc in black and brown shades of green with varying tones which lead to the naming of the common name coneflower. The flower petals of the plant exhibit a bright orange texture, so it is called the orange coneflower.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Orange coneflower, including the following common varieties :

Orange coneflower 'Early Bird Gold'Orange coneflower 'Little Goldstar'Orange coneflower 'Goldsturm'

Quickly Identify Orange coneflower

Distinctive flower heads with a brown to black flattened dome at the center.

Bright yellow or orange ray flowers in a single row, creating a stark contrast.

Erect branched stem covered in coarse, stiff hairs, reaching up to 2.5 feet (76 cm).

Ovate to ovate lanceolate leaves in a basal rosette, up to 5 inches (12.7 cm) long.

Ray florets measuring 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.6 cm) in width with a purple-brown central disk.

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Care Guide for Orange coneflower

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Orange coneflower thrives in moist meadows and woodlands, favoring consistent moisture and adaptability to drought. Weekly watering supports its growth, while mulching helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, essential for this herbaceous perennial's health.

Fertilize: To optimize growth, fertilize orange coneflower with balanced nutrition in spring and switch to high phosphorus types during flowering. Apply a quarter-strength solution every 2-4 weeks, avoiding overfertilizing. Adjust feeding seasonally and always water orange coneflower before fertilizing to prevent root burn, ensuring vibrant blooms.

Pruning: Orange coneflower thrives with regular pruning in early to late spring to remove dead stems and promote growth. Deadheading extends blooming, while cutting the plant back in fall or spring rejuvenates it. Consistent pruning prevents legginess and disease, ensuring a robust display.

Propagation: Orange coneflower propagates effectively via division in spring or autumn. Successful propagation is indicated by new growth and established roots. For best results, ensure appropriate soil preparation and proper sizing during division.

Repotting: Repot orange coneflower every 2-3 years in early spring using a slightly larger container with good drainage. After repotting, keep the soil moist and avoid direct sunlight for one week to minimize stress and encourage robust growth.

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