Orange flowers stand out as vibrant gems in any garden. The sun-like radiance of these flowers has always been cherished by gardeners all over the world.
As you fill your garden with orange blossoms, you’re creating a rich tapestry that carries an emotional resonance and the feeling of positivity. From the lively marigold to the delicate California poppy, orange flowers have been known to captivate gardeners with their vivid hues and diverse forms. Today, we explore 20 best plant varieties renowned for producing orange flowers.
1. Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia rotundifolia)
The Mexican Sunflower, also known as the Red Sunflower, is a stunning annual flower native to Mexico and Central America. It is a vigorous grower that reaches a height of about 4-6 feet tall. Also, it produces large, showy blooms throughout the summer and fall, attracting butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.
Mexican sunflowers can self-seed, so new plants might pop up in your garden the following year. Overall, this flower makes a great addition to any home garden.
- USDA Growing Zones: 8–11
- Color Varieties: Bright orange, yellow and red
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
2. California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
These cup-shaped flowers come in shades of orange, yellow, and even pink, adding a cheerful pop of color to your landscape. The California Poppy blooms continuously from spring to summer, providing consistent color throughout the warm months.
Simply scatter seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed in the spring. They readily germinate and often self-seed for future blooms.
- USDA Growing Zones: 6–10
- Color Varieties: Orange, yellow, red
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, sandy soil
3. Orange Zinnia ( Zinnia elegans)
Orange Zinnia is a cheerful flower that belongs to the Zinnia elegans species. They are known for their large, showy blooms that come in a wide range of colors.
Additionally, these plants will continuously produce blooms throughout the summer and into early fall, adding a pop of color to your garden for months on end. Sow seeds directly outdoors in well-drained soil after the danger of frost has passed, or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Provide full sun and space plants 8–12 inches apart.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3–10
- Color Varieties: Orange, red, pink, and yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
4. Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus)
Commonly known as garden cosmos or Mexican aster, Cosmos is a medium-sized flowering herbaceous plant in the daisy family Asteraceae. It is an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle in one growing season.
Cosmos plants typically grows to 2-4 feet tall with airy, feathery foliage and single, daisy-like flowers. These easy to grow small flowers require minimal care and attention, making them perfect for busy gardeners.
- USDA Growing Zones: 2-11
- Color Varieties: Orange, pink, white
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Well-drained soil
5. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
A great source of orange yellow flowers, the black-eyed susan is a member of the sunflower family. The plant boasts bright yellow and orange petals with a distinctive dark brown center, resembling a black eye—hence the name.
The state flower of Maryland symbolizes happiness, cheerfulness, and positivity. It was also used in traditional medicine by Native Americans for various ailments. You can start them from seeds sown directly outdoors in spring or early summer, or opt for transplants from a nursery.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3–9
- Color Varieties: Orange, yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, average soil
6. Marigold (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds, with their sunny disposition and vibrant blooms, are a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. These annuals thrive with minimal care, needing just well-drained soil and plenty of sunshine.
Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date, or buy transplants from a nursery. They are a popular mosquito repellent plant that can also repel other pests, including whiteflies and nematodes.
- USDA Growing Zones: 2-11
- Color Varieties: Shades of orange, yellow, and red
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Well-draining soil
7. Blanket Flower (Gaillardia x grandiflora)
The blanket flower (Gaillardia spp.) is a genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family, native to North and South America. They are known for their vibrant, daisy-like flowers that come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, orange, and burgundy.
The plant’s common name likely comes from the resemblance of their flower clusters to traditional Native American blankets. They are tolerant of heat, drought, and poor soil conditions, making them ideal for beginner gardeners.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3–10
- Color Varieties: Orange, red, yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, sandy soil
8. Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)
The Trumpet Vine, also known as Flame vines, is a vigorous, deciduous, woody vine native to eastern North America. It’s known for its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers blooming throughout the summer in clusters at the ends of branches.
The vine can grow up to 40 feet tall and readily climbs on trellises, fences, walls, and even trees (sometimes engulfing them in the process). It is important to prune them regularly to control their aggressive growth and maintain their desired shape. Also, learn about indoor vine plants that can add beauty to your home.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4–9
- Color Varieties: Orange, red and yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Well-drained soil
9. Daylily (Hemerocallis spp.)
The orange daylily is an easy-to-grow perennial flower native to Asia. It’s a popular choice for gardens for many reasons. They produce a succession of blooms throughout the summer, with each flower lasting for a day (hence the name “daylily”).
They are hardy plants that require minimal care and are resistant to most pests and diseases. Plant them in the spring or fall, spacing them about 2-3 feet apart.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3–10
- Color Varieties: Orange, red, yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
10. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Also known as pot marigolds, these cheerful annuals come in a variety of colors, including orange, yellow, and gold. They are heat-tolerant and easy to grow from seed.
Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost or start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost for earlier blooms. Space plants 6–8 inches apart in well-drained soil. Calendula is a type of flower whose both the petals and leaves are edible and can be added to salads, soups, or used as a garnish.
- USDA Growing Zones: 2-11
- Color Varieties: Orange, yellow, and Apricot
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
11. Globe Amaranth (Gomphrena globosa)
Globe amaranth is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and heat-resistant, making it a perfect choice for hot, dry climates. Sow seeds directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, or start them indoors a few weeks earlier for earlier blooms.
Also known as Bachelor’s Buttons, these orange flowers can be planted in beds, borders, rock gardens, or containers. It adds a pop of color and attracts butterflies and other pollinators.
- USDA Growing Zones: 2-11
- Color Varieties: Orange, pink, purple, white
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
12. Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
This vibrant perennial is a must-have for butterfly gardens. It attracts monarch butterflies, a flying insect, and features clusters of orange flowers that bloom in the summer. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for xeriscapes and sunny garden beds.
They can be sown directly in the garden in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. Or, you can start seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, or purchase established plants from a nursery.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4–9
- Color Varieties: Orange, yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Well-drained soil
13. Lantana (Lantana camara)
Lantana is a forgiving plant that thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. It’s tolerant of heat, drought, and even poor soil conditions. They continue throughout the summer, attracting butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.
However, it is important to note that lantana is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world, including Australia, New Zealand, and parts of the United States. Before planting, check if lantana is considered invasive in your area. You can deadhead it regularly to minimize the spread.
- USDA Growing Zones: 8–11
- Color Varieties: Orange, red, yellow, pink
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Well-drained soil
14. Helenium (Helenium autumnale)
Helenium autumnale, more commonly known as sneezeweed, is a beautiful perennial plant that blooms in late summer and fall. It’s an erect, clump-forming perennial with winged stems that branch near the top.
While generally safe, the leaves and powdered disc flowers can cause allergic reactions in some people. It’s best to avoid handling the plant directly and wash your hands thoroughly after working with it.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3–9
- Color Varieties: Orange, red, yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Moist, well-drained soil
15. Orangeade Potentilla (Potentilla fruticosa)
The potentilla flower, also known as the cinquefoil, grows as compact shrubs, reaching 2-4 feet tall and wide. They bloom profusely in a wide range of colors from late spring to early fall.
Some of the popular varieties of this plant include ‘Goldfinger,’ ‘Tangerine,’ and ‘Abbotswood.’ They often have creeping or spreading growth habits, making them excellent groundcovers. These flowers bloom in similar colors to shrubby potentillas, with varieties like ‘Nepal Springs’ and ‘Gibson Scarlet offering vibrant orange options.
- USDA Growing Zones: 2–7
- Color Varieties: Orange, yellow, pink and red
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, loamy soil
16. Cannas (Canna spp.)
Cannas are easy-to-grow, tropical-looking perennials that add a vibrant touch to any garden with their showy flowers. Flower shapes can be single, double, or ruffled.
Moreover, the plant’s height varies from dwarf varieties (18 inches) to tall giants (over 6 feet). In terms of care, they require minimal watering and fertilization once established, and deadheading spent blooms encourage continuous flowering.
- USDA Growing Zones: 7–11
- Color Varieties: Orange, red, yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Rich, moist soil
17. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus)
Nasturtium flowers typically reach 2–3 inches in diameter and have five rounded petals with a long nectar spur at the back. The flowers have a peppery, slightly spicy flavor and can be added to salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish.
The leaves have a similar taste and can be used in salads or pesto. They are good companion plants for carrots. Also, they act as a natural pest repellent, attracting beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies while deterring aphids and other harmful pests.
- USDA Growing Zones: 2-11
- Color Varieties: Orange, yellow, red
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Well-drained soil
18. Firebird Coneflower (Echinacea ‘Firebird’)
The Firebird Coneflower is an easy-to-grow orange flower that would be a stunning addition to your garden. They bloom profusely from midsummer until frost, adding a pop of color to your garden.
It grows in a compact clump, reaching 18–24 inches tall and 22 inches wide, making it perfect for smaller gardens or containers. These flowers are deer-resistant and can be used as cut flowers.
- USDA Growing Zones: 4–9
- Color Varieties: Orange, red
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
19. Mandarin Sunset Rose (Rosa ‘Mandarin Sunset’)
The Mandarin Sunset Rose, a stunning hybrid tea rose, thrives in USDA growing zones 5 to 9. Its exquisite blooms showcase a mesmerizing blend of shades ranging from vibrant orange to delicate pink and hints of yellow.
This rose variety flourishes under full sun exposure, soaking up the warmth and light to produce abundant blooms. They have effective disease resistance, making them a great choice for novice gardeners.
- USDA Growing Zones: 5–9
- Color Varieties: Shades of orange, with hints of yellow and pink
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
20. Orange Glow Begonia (Begonia ‘Orange Glow’)
The Orange Glow Begonia (Begonia ‘Orange Glow’) is a stunning hybrid known for its large clusters of bright orange flowers and its relatively easy care requirements. These begonias prefer well-draining soil and should not be overwatered.
It can be fertilized monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. You can check out the begonia growing guide and care which is perfectly suitable for beginners.
- USDA Growing Zones: 10–12
- Color Varieties: Orange (with hints of red)
- Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full shade
- Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile soil
Some FAQs
What do orange flowers symbolize?
Orange flowers typically symbolize enthusiasm, warmth, joy, creativity, and social energy. They can also represent passion, desire, and excitement.
Are there any orange flowers that are poisonous?
While many orange flowers are safe, it’s crucial to identify the specific flower before ingesting or using it around pets or children. Some potentially poisonous orange flowers include lantana, daffodils, and buttercups.