Species

150 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Hot Papaya Coneflower

Q: What zones can Hot Papaya Coneflower grow in?

Hot Papaya 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.

Q: Is Hot Papaya Coneflower deer resistant?

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

Q: When does Hot Papaya Coneflower bloom?

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

Q: Does Hot Papaya Coneflower need full sun?

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

Q: Is Hot Papaya Coneflower drought tolerant?

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

Echinacea purpurea 'Hot Papaya'

$14.95

The Story

Plant Bio

Echinacea 'Hot Papaya' is a hybrid coneflower known for its vibrant, double, reddish-orange pompom-like flowers on strong stems.

This was the first-ever double orange coneflower, featuring a large central cone of short, reddish-orange ray flowers surrounded by a single row of drooping, lighter orange-red petals. It is fragrant.

Uses & Benefits:

Echinacea purpurea 'Hot Papaya' offers vibrant, long-lasting blooms that attract pollinators, adding lively color to gardens.

Its medicinal properties are valued for immune-boosting teas.

Provides nectar for butterflies and bees, supporting local ecosystems.

SpeciesEchinacea purpureaPurple Coneflower

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

32 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

New Garden Plants

<1 Gal Pot

In Stock$14.95

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
Transplant seedlings when they are 4-6 inches tall, after last frost.
Water deeply once a week during dry periods to encourage deep roots.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Divide mature plants every 3-4 years in early spring for rejuvenation.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms and strong growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 💧
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers for prolonged blooming
Provide well-draining soil to prevent root rot

Don't

Overwater to avoid fungal issues ❌
Avoid heavy, clay soils without amendment
Don’t prune in late fall to protect winter interest

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid perennial borderWildflower meadow accentButterfly-attracting garden

Companion Plants

Black-eyed Susan Coreopsis Liatris SalviaYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions