Also known as perennial black-eyed Susan, orange coneflower has 2-3" daisy-like flower heads consisting of showy, yellow-orange ray flowers surrounding a brownish-black cone of central disc flowers. The hair-covered stems and leaves give the plant a rough texture. Water new plants regularly and provide a little fertilizer or compost, if desired. Once established, the plant is drought tolerant, but an occasional watering, especially during a dry year, will extend the growing season. These plants are prolific reseeders and will spread enthusiastically in good conditions and if given little competition. Dead-heading can be done until fall to promote new blooms. Consider leaving the seed heads for the birds and the foliage to insulate the roots during winter. Wonderful when massed in meadows or large areas or when used in native plantings, perennial borders, and cottage gardens. The flowers are excellent in cut-flower arrangments.
 
Plant Characteristics:
Grows 2-4' tall.
 
Needs full sun.
 
Adapts to moist to dry, well-drained soils, including clay.
 
Flowers bloom July-October.
 
Wildlife Value:
Host plant for larvae of gorgone checkerspot and bordered patch butterflies and 5 specialist Lepidoptera species.
 
Medicinal, Edible, and Other Uses:
Native Americans used a root tea for deworming and treating colds and a root juice for treating earaches. An external wash was used for sores, snakebites, and swellings.
 
Resources:
Lady Bird Johnson Wildlife Center: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=RUHI2.
Martha Stewart: https://www.marthastewart.com/8342727/how-to-plant-grow-and-care-for-black-eyed-susans.