Hieracium aurantiacum
perennial

Orange Hawkweed

Hieracium aurantiacum

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Hieracium aurantiacum, or orange hawkweed, is a perennial herb with hairy leaves in a basal rosette. It spreads via stolons and rhizomes to form dense mats. Stems bear clusters of bright orange, dandelion-like flower heads. This species is considered a noxious, invasive weed in many regions. Its vibrant flowers are attractive, but it spreads aggressively, outcompeting native plants. Planting is strongly discouraged.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright orange flowers add vibrant color to gardens, attracting beneficial insects and enhancing visual appeal.
Practical UsesDrought tolerant and low-maintenance, suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators and beneficial insects, contributing to garden biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring
  2. Keep soil moist until germination, around 2 weeks
  3. Thin seedlings to 8 inches apart for healthy growth
  4. Water regularly during dry periods, especially first year
  5. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
  6. Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
  • Divide every 3 years for vigorous growth
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t disturb roots during flowering
  • Refrain from fertilizing late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid orange border plantWildflower meadow accentDrought-tolerant rock garden feature

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum Echinacea Gaillardia Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Orange Hawkweed questions

What zones can Orange Hawkweed grow in?

Orange Hawkweed 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 Hawkweed deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Orange Hawkweed, especially tender spring growth β€” plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Orange Hawkweed bloom?

Orange Hawkweed typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Orange Hawkweed need full sun?

Orange Hawkweed does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Orange Hawkweed drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Orange Hawkweed with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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