When it comes to weeds with orange flowers, there are actually quite a few that you may come across in your grass, yard, or garden. I’ve personally dealt with some of these weeds, so I can share my experiences and knowledge with you. Let’s explore some common weeds with orange flowers:
1. Butterfly Weed: This vibrant orange-flowered weed is also known as Asclepias tuberosa. It is a native wildflower that attracts butterflies, hence the name. While it may be considered a weed by some, many people intentionally plant butterfly weed in their gardens to support pollinators.
2. Orange Hawkweed: Hieracium aurantiacum, commonly known as orange hawkweed, is a perennial weed that spreads quickly through its underground stems. It produces clusters of small orange flowers and can be quite invasive if not controlled.
3. Orange Jewelweed: Impatiens capensis, also known as orange jewelweed or touch-me-not, is a common weed found in damp areas. It has bright orange flowers and succulent stems. Jewelweed is known for its medicinal properties and is often used to soothe skin irritations caused by poison ivy or stinging nettle.
4. Orange Nasturtium: Nasturtium officinale, or watercress, is a semi-aquatic plant that can be considered a weed when it grows in unwanted areas. It produces vibrant orange flowers and has a slightly peppery taste. Some gardeners intentionally cultivate nasturtium for its edible leaves and flowers.
5. Red Chickweed: Stellaria media, commonly called chickweed, may have small white flowers, but it can also produce orange-red flowers. This fast-growing weed often invades lawns and gardens, competing with desired plants for resources.
6. Red Sorrel: Rumex acetosella, also known as sheep sorrel or red sorrel, is a perennial weed with small orange-red flowers. It has a distinctive sour taste and is often considered an invasive weed in lawns and pastures.
7. Evening Primrose: Oenothera biennis, commonly called evening primrose, is a biennial weed that produces large yellow or orange flowers that bloom in the evening. While it may be considered a weed by some, evening primrose is also cultivated for its oil, which is rich in omega-6 fatty acids.
8. Tawny Day-Lily: Hemerocallis fulva, or tawny day-lily, is a perennial plant that produces showy orange flowers. While it can be intentionally planted in gardens, it can also spread and become invasive if not properly maintained.
These are just a few examples of weeds with orange flowers that you may encounter. It’s important to note that what one person considers a weed, another may value as a wildflower or even a cultivated plant. If you’re unsure about a particular plant in your yard or garden, it’s always helpful to consult with a local gardening expert or extension service for proper identification and advice on managing it.