Whether or not orange carpet is a perennial plant depends on the specific variety. There are some varieties of orange carpet that are perennial in certain hardiness zones, while others are annual everywhere.
What is Orange Carpet?
Orange carpet refers to a group of low-growing plants that spread along the ground like a carpet. They are often used as colorful groundcovers or in containers. The plants produce clusters of small, bright orange flowers. There are a few different varieties of orange carpet plants:
- Calendula (Pot marigold)
- Creeping zinnia
- Ice plant (Delosperma cooperi)
- Creeping sedum (Sedum spurium)
The most common orange carpet plants are varieties of calendula, creeping zinnia, and ice plant. Let’s take a closer look at each of these.
Calendula
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is an herbaceous plant in the daisy family Asteraceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region but is grown worldwide as an ornamental plant. The common name “marigold” refers to its bright yellow and orange flowers.
There are several varieties of calendula with orange flowers that would be described as “orange carpet” plants, such as ‘Orange Porcupine’ and ‘Bon Bon’. These varieties spread 12-18 inches tall and wide, with a mounding form. The small 1-2 inch flowers bloom prolifically from spring to fall.
Creeping Zinnia
Creeping zinnia (Sanvitalia procumbens) is a small flowering plant native to Mexico. It produces trailing stems up to 18 inches long covered in 1 inch daisy-like orange flowers. It is a popular ground cover and container plant thanks to its drought tolerance and non-stop blooms.
Ice Plant
There are hundreds of species of ice plants, but the ones described as orange carpet plants typically belong to the Delosperma genus. Delosperma cooperi, also known as hardy ice plant, is a South African native with brilliant orange-yellow daisy flowers. It forms a mat 3-6 inches tall and spreads 1-2 feet wide.
Are Orange Carpet Plants Perennial?
Whether an orange carpet plant is perennial depends on the variety:
- Calendula – Annual everywhere
- Creeping zinnia – Annual in colder climates, perennial in zones 9-11
- Ice plant – Perennial in zones 5-10
- Creeping sedum – Perennial in zones 4-9
So in mild climates, creeping zinnia and ice plant would return each year and function as perennial groundcovers. But in most areas calendula and creeping zinnia will die back over winter and require replanting.
Growing Tips
Sun Exposure
Full sun is ideal for orange carpet plants. They will produce the most flowers and maintain a compact form in a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil
Orange carpet plants thrive in average garden soil with decent drainage. Avoid frequent standing water. Amending clay soils with compost can improve drainage.
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist, allowing it to slightly dry out between waterings. Established plants have some drought tolerance but will flower best with regular water. Avoid overwatering.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer or slow-release granular fertilizer a couple times during the growing season. This will encourage flowering and fill out growth.
Pruning
Trim off spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Can prune back leggy growth in spring to maintain a compact form.
Propagation
Orange carpet plants can easily be started from seed indoors or directly sown outside after the last frost. Take cuttings from established plants to propagate more groundcover.
Overwintering
In zones where orange carpet is grown as an annual, collect seeds at the end of the season for replanting next year. You can also overwinter potted plants indoors in a sunny window and take cuttings.
Pests and Disease
Orange carpet plants are generally quite hardy and pest/disease resistant if grown in the right conditions. Proper spacing and air circulation will prevent fungal disease. Be on the watch for aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Landscaping Uses
Orange carpet plants make excellent groundcovers thanks to their low, spreading form and colorful flowers. They also work well in containers and hanging baskets. Try them in:
- Borders
- Rock gardens
- On slopes and banks
- In window boxes, planters, and hanging baskets
- As a living mulch or edging around gardens and paths
- In pollinator and butterfly gardens
Combinations
Orange carpet plants pair nicely with blue or purple companions. Try combining with:
- Blue fescue grass
- Russian sage
- Catmint
- Sage
- Verbana
- Blue star creeper
Table Comparing Orange Carpet Varieties
| Variety | Height | Spread | Bloom Time | Perennial? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calendula | 12-18 inches | 12-18 inches | Spring – Frost | No |
| Creeping Zinnia | Up to 18 inches | Up to 2 feet | Year-round | Zones 9-11 |
| Ice Plant | 3-6 inches | 1-2 feet | Spring – Fall | Zones 5-10 |
| Creeping Sedum | 3-6 inches | 18-24 inches | Late spring – Summer | Zones 4-9 |
Conclusion
Whether orange carpet is a perennial depends on the variety. Calendula and creeping zinnia are grown as annuals in most climates, while ice plant and creeping sedum will come back each year in appropriate hardiness zones. All types provide bright color and a low maintenance groundcover or container planting. Choose varieties suited to your location and needs.
