In this informative article, readers are provided with a comprehensive overview of eight different kinds of orange wildflowers that can be found in Colorado. From the vibrant Orange Hawkweed, known for its coppery flowers and aggressive growth, to the Spotted Touch-Me-Not, famous for its exploding seed pods, each wildflower is described in detail, including its growing information and unique characteristics. The article also explores the ecological importance of these wildflowers, such as their role in attracting pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies. Additionally, it provides intriguing historical and cultural facts about each wildflower, offering readers a deeper appreciation for these vibrant blooms. So, if you’ve ever come across an orange wildflower in Colorado and have been curious about its identity, this article is a fantastic resource for you.

Orange Hawkweed

Hieracium aurantiacum (synonymous with Pilosella aurantiaca)

Also known as: Orange Hawkbit, Orange Aster, Devil’s Paintbrush, King Devil Hawkweed, Devil’s Weed, Tawny Hawkweed, Red Daisy Flameweed, Grim-the-collier, Fox and Cubs

Growing Information

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 5-10
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Approximate Mature Size: 10-24 in (25-61 cm) tall
• Bloom Time: Summer to Early Fall
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun or Partial Shade

Orange Hawkweed is a favorite of many gardeners for its coppery, orange-red to yellow flowers with black tips that attract many pollinators. This vibrant wildflower is also known for its numerous nicknames, including Orange Hawkbit, Orange Aster, Devil’s Paintbrush, and King Devil Hawkweed.

Did you know that the ancient Greeks believed that the milky sap of hawkweeds gave hawks their sharp eyesight? This fascinating myth adds to the allure of this beautiful flower.

Orange Hawkweed was introduced to Colorado in the 1800s and has since become a popular addition to gardens and landscapes. However, it’s important to note that Orange Hawkweed can be quite aggressive and spreads rapidly, so it’s necessary to monitor its growth and prevent it from overtaking other plants.

Spotted Touch-Me-Not

Impatiens capensis (formerly known as Impatiens biflora)

Also known as: Orange Balsam, Orange Jewelweed, Jewelweed, Common Jewelweed, Spotted Jewelweed, Snapweed, Spotted Snap Weed, Silver Leaf, and Silver-cap

Growing Information

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 2-11
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Approximate Mature Size: 24-60 in (61-152 cm) tall
• Bloom Time: Summer
• Sun Exposure: Shade to Partial Sun

Spotted Touch-Me-Not is a striking orange wildflower that is known for its yellowish-orange flowers with brown spots. One interesting feature of this flower is its seed pods, which have a unique defense mechanism. When touched, the pods explode, dispersing the seeds in all directions.

This wildflower is a favorite of many gardeners and nature enthusiasts due to its ability to attract the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. The long tubular flowers of the Spotted Touch-Me-Not are especially attractive to these hummingbirds, who use their slender beaks to collect the nectar.

In addition to hummingbirds, other birds such as the Ruffed Grouse and the Ring-necked Pheasant also feed on the seeds of the Spotted Touch-Me-Not. This makes it a great addition to any bird-friendly garden.

Butterfly Weed

Asclepias tuberosa

Also known as: Orange Milkweed, Butterfly Milkweed, Chieger Flower, and Chiggerflower

Growing Information

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Approximate Mature Size: 18-36 in (46-91 cm) tall
• Bloom Time: Summer
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun or Partial Shade

Butterfly Weed, also known as Orange Milkweed, is a popular choice for butterfly gardens due to its ability to attract butterflies. This vibrant orange wildflower features a flat-topped cluster of bright orange flowers that are particularly attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds.

Aside from its beauty and ability to attract pollinators, Butterfly Weed has a long history of traditional uses. Native Americans chewed the root of this plant to treat pleurisy, bronchitis, and other pulmonary ailments. When boiled into tea, Butterfly Weed can also be used to treat stomach issues.

It’s important to note that the roots and sap of Butterfly Weed are toxic to humans in large quantities, so caution should be exercised when using this plant for medicinal purposes.

Wood Lily

Lilium philadelphicum

Also known as: Red Lily, Prairie Lily, Western Red Lily, Northern Red Lily, and Philadelphia Lily

Growing Information

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Approximate Mature Size: 12-36 in (30-91 cm) tall
• Bloom Time: Mid Summer to Late Summer
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun or Partial Shade

Wood Lily, also known as Red Lily, is a stunning wildflower that adds a touch of elegance to any garden or natural landscape. This orange beauty features upward-facing petals that are designed to catch the attention of passing hummingbirds and butterflies, aiding in cross-pollination.

One interesting characteristic of the Wood Lily is the longevity of its flowers. Each flower remains open for 8-11 days, unlike many other orange wildflowers that close or wither after they’re pollinated.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Wood Lilies have been traditionally used for culinary purposes. The bulbs of the Wood Lily have a flavor similar to turnips and can be eaten. However, it’s important to note that Wood Lilies are often picked from their natural habitat by visitors, which has led to a decline in their population. Conservation efforts are crucial to preserve this beautiful species.

Blanket Flower

Gaillardia pulchella

Also known as: Indian Blanketflower, Beach Blanket-flower, Indian Blanket Flower, Firewheel, Sundance, Girasol Rojo, and Gaillardia

Growing Information

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 2-11
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Approximate Mature Size: 12-24 in (30-61cm) tall
• Bloom Time: Summer to Early Fall; Year-round in some areas
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun or Light Shade

Blanket Flower, also known as Indian Blanketflower, is a vibrant wildflower that displays a stunning combination of red, orange, and yellow petals. Its beautiful colors attract bees and birds, making it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.

Many beekeepers incorporate Blanket Flower into their beehives, as the honey made from this orange wildflower in Colorado is mild, buttery, and amber-colored. Goldfinches also enjoy feeding on the seeds of Blanket Flower, so leaving some seedheads after the flowering season is beneficial for these birds.

Blanket Flower is a versatile plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions, including full sun or light shade. Its ability to bloom year-round in some areas adds to its appeal for gardeners and nature enthusiasts.

Tropical Milkweed

Asclepias curassavica

Also known as: Scarlet Milkweed, Bloodflower, Cotton Bush, Sunset Flower, Swallow Wort, Silkweed, Indian Root, Curassavian, Cancerillo (Spanish); Bloodflower, and Mexican Milkweed

Growing Information

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 8b-11
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Approximate Mature Size: 24-48 in (61-122 cm) tall
• Bloom Time: Late Spring to Early Fall
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun or Partial Shade

Tropical Milkweed, also known as Scarlet Milkweed or Bloodflower, is an eye-catching orange wildflower that can be found in various regions. This non-native species has become invasive in many areas, including parts of Colorado.

While Tropical Milkweed may be visually appealing, it carries a parasite called Ophryocystis elektroscirrha (OE), which affects Monarch Butterflies. This parasite can cause defects in the wings of Monarchs and disrupt their migration patterns.

To help reduce the spread of OE and support native pollinators, it’s recommended to plant native milkweed species instead of Tropical Milkweed. Cutting back Tropical Milkweed plants at the end of summer and disposing of the cuttings can help remove infected plants from the ecosystem.

Orange Agoseris

Agoseris aurantiaca

Also known as: Orange-flowered False-dandelion and Mountain Dandelion

Growing Information

• USDA Hardiness Zone: Unknown
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Approximate Mature Size: 12-36 in (30-91 cm) tall
• Bloom Time: Late Summer to Early Fall
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Orange Agoseris is a member of the Sunflower family and is sometimes referred to as Orange-flowered False-dandelion or Mountain Dandelion. This vibrant wildflower features coppery-orange flower heads that can be used to make Dandelion beer or wine. Additionally, the leaves of the Orange Agoseris are edible and can be consumed.

Once the Orange Agoseris has gone to seed, the flower head transforms into a white, puffy ball. The wind carries each seed, allowing for the creation of new plants.

While the USDA hardiness zone for Orange Agoseris is unknown, it is typically found in mountainous regions, making it a unique addition to any garden or natural landscape.

Wholeleaf Paintbrush

Castilleja integra

Also known as: Wholeleaf Indian Paintbrush, and Squawfeather

Growing Information

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 4-7
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Approximate Mature Size: 6-16 in (15-41 cm) tall
• Bloom Time: Spring to Summer
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Wholeleaf Paintbrush, also known as Wholeleaf Indian Paintbrush or Squawfeather, is a delicate and captivating orange wildflower. Unlike other orange wildflowers, the vivid red-orange color that you will see on the Wholeleaf Paintbrush is not its flower but a part of its leaves called bracts. The actual flower is a small green tube protruding from the center.

Wholeleaf Paintbrush is often found in mountain oak and pine forests, adding a burst of color and beauty to these landscapes. By examining its stems and leaves, you can easily identify this unique orange wildflower. Small white hairs cover the entire plant, except for the blossoms.

Wholeleaf Paintbrush is a perennial wildflower that thrives in full sun. Its blooming period is in spring to summer, providing a stunning display of color during this time.

In conclusion, Colorado is home to a wide variety of orange wildflowers that add charm and vibrancy to the natural landscape. From the aggressive growth of Orange Hawkweed to the delicate beauty of Wholeleaf Paintbrush, each of these wildflowers has its own unique characteristics and contributions to the ecosystem. By appreciating and conserving these orange wildflowers, we can continue to enjoy their beauty and benefits for generations to come.