Species

Echinacea purpureaPurple Coneflower

150 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Orange Skipper Coneflower

Echinacea purpurea 'Orange Skipper'

The Story

Plant Bio

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a robust, upright perennial native to eastern North America. It features large, daisy-like flowers with drooping, lavender-pink rays surrounding a spiny, coppery-orange central cone. Its leaves are coarse, ovate to lance-shaped, and dark green.

A compact cultivar from the Butterfly(TM) series, 'Orange Skipper' is noted for its profusion of large, single, vibrant tangerine-orange flowers with a deep orange-brown central cone. The non-drooping petals remain horizontal, creating a bold display from mid-summer to fall. It has a sturdy, well-branched habit.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid orange flowers add cheerful color, attracting pollinators and enhancing garden aesthetics.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens.

Supports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting biodiversity.

SpeciesEchinacea purpureaPurple Coneflower

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

20 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings lightly to encourage root growth.
Water regularly during first growing season, then drought tolerant.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
Divide plants every 3-4 years in early spring.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil for healthy root development.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to promote more blooms
Divide every 3-4 years for vigorous growth

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Use heavy, clay soils without amendment
Neglect pruning after flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright border with vibrant orange flowersPollinator-friendly garden feature

Companion Plants

CoreopsisBlack-eyed Susan Lavender SalviaYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Orange Skipper Coneflower questions

What zones can Orange Skipper Coneflower grow in?

Orange Skipper Coneflower is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Orange Skipper Coneflower deer resistant?

Yes — Orange Skipper Coneflower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Orange Skipper Coneflower bloom?

Orange Skipper Coneflower typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Orange Skipper Coneflower need full sun?

Orange Skipper Coneflower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Orange Skipper Coneflower drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Orange Skipper Coneflower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.