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Geum Queen of Orange

Geum Queen of Orange

Avens

£4.99
37523
Out of stock
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At a Glance

Geum 'Queen of Orange' (Queen of Orange Avens)

 

Overview

Geum 'Queen of Orange' is a spectacular hardy perennial that brings vibrant warmth and exceptional flowering performance to the garden throughout the growing season. This outstanding cultivar produces masses of brilliant orange, semi-double flowers that seem to glow with inner fire, creating stunning displays from late spring through to early autumn. With its robust clumping habit, attractive basal foliage, and remarkably long flowering period, 'Queen of Orange' is perfect for gardeners seeking reliable, low-maintenance colour that delivers consistent performance year after year.

 

Key Features

  • Flowering Period: April to May (exceptionally long flowering season)

  • Mature Size: 45cm tall

  • Spreading: 45cm

  • Growth Rate: Moderate to fast, establishing well in first season

  • Hardiness: Hardy in the UK down to temperatures of >-20 degrees Celcius (RHS hardiness rating H7)

  • Soil Requirements: Well-draining, fertile, moisture-retentive soil

  • Aspect: Full sun to partial shade (full sun preferred)

 

Flowers

The standout feature of 'Queen of Orange' is its profusion of vibrant orange, semi-double flowers that create an intense display of warm colour. Each bloom measures 4-5cm across with multiple layers of silky petals in rich orange tones that may show subtle red undertones, particularly in cooler weather. The flowers are borne on sturdy, upright stems that rise well above the foliage, creating a spectacular display that attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. The semi-double form provides more substance and longevity than single-flowered varieties whilst maintaining the classic Geum charm.

 

Foliage

The plant forms attractive clumps of fresh green, deeply lobed basal leaves that create excellent textural interest throughout the growing season. The foliage is semi-evergreen, providing garden structure through milder winters whilst dying back partially in severe cold. The leaves form neat, compact rosettes that provide the perfect foil for the brilliant orange blooms and maintain their attractive appearance even when the plant isn't flowering.

 

Growth Habit

'Queen of Orange' is particularly noted for its robust, well-behaved clumping habit that forms substantial mounds without becoming invasive. The plant maintains its tidy appearance throughout the growing season, with strong stems that support the flowers well without staking. This reliable growth habit makes it ideal for both formal and informal garden settings.

 

Soil Requirements

For optimal growth, plant in well-draining, fertile soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Unlike many alpine plants, Geums appreciate soil with good organic content and consistent moisture during the growing season. Heavy clay soils benefit from organic matter incorporation, whilst very sandy soils should be enriched with compost to improve moisture retention.

 

Light Requirements

Best grown in full sun but tolerates partial shade reasonably well. Provide at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain compact form and prolific flowering. Full sun positions produce the most vibrant flower colours and abundant blooms, though some afternoon shade can be beneficial in very hot climates.

 

Watering Needs

Requires consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly during dry spells. Unlike drought-tolerant alpines, Geums perform best with regular watering, especially during flowering periods. However, avoid waterlogged conditions which can lead to crown rot, particularly in winter months.

 

Planting

Plant from spring through early autumn, with spring planting providing optimal establishment time before the main flowering season. Space plants 30-35cm apart for individual specimens or closer for mass plantings. Being fully hardy, it performs excellently in borders and can be successfully grown in larger containers with adequate moisture retention.

 

Maintenance

Regular deadheading is essential to maintain continuous flowering throughout the season. Remove spent blooms by cutting back to fresh buds or basal foliage. After the main flowering flush, cut the entire plant back by one-third to encourage fresh growth and a second wave of blooms. Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding.

 

Feeding

Benefits from regular feeding during the growing season. Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring as growth begins, followed by monthly liquid feeds during the flowering period. An annual mulch of well-rotted compost or manure helps retain moisture and provides gentle, sustained nutrition.

 

Mixed Borders

Excellent for mid-border positions where its vibrant orange flowers create stunning focal points. The warm colour complements both hot and cool colour schemes, making it exceptionally versatile for different garden styles. Particularly effective in cottage garden settings and contemporary naturalistic plantings.

 

Cottage Gardens

Perfect for traditional cottage garden schemes where its informal habit and long flowering season provide reliable colour. The warm orange tones blend beautifully with other cottage garden favourites whilst the robust nature ensures consistent performance season after season.

 

Container Gardens

Suitable for larger containers and patio plantings where its extended flowering period provides excellent value. Choose containers with good drainage but adequate moisture retention, and be prepared to water regularly during dry periods.

 

Cut Flower Gardens

Provides excellent cut flowers for informal arrangements, with the semi-double blooms lasting well in water. The warm orange colour is particularly valuable for autumn arrangements and seasonal displays.

 

Wildlife Gardens

The flowers are excellent for pollinators, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects throughout the long flowering period. The extended blooming season provides nectar over many months, making it valuable for supporting garden biodiversity.

 

Companion Planting

'Queen of Orange' creates beautiful combinations with blue-flowered perennials such as delphiniums, campanulas, and hardy geraniums for striking complementary colour schemes. Pairs excellently with ornamental grasses, particularly those with bronze or copper tones, and combines well with other warm-coloured perennials like rudbeckia and helenium for hot border schemes.

 

Potential Issues

Generally trouble-free when grown in appropriate conditions. Crown rot can occur in poorly drained soils, particularly during wet winters. Aphids may occasionally affect new growth, and slugs can damage young foliage in damp conditions. Vine weevil can be problematic in container-grown plants.

 

Seasonal Interest

  • Spring: Fresh basal foliage emerges with the first vibrant orange blooms appearing in late spring

  • Summer: Peak flowering period with continuous succession of brilliant orange semi-double flowers

  • Autumn: Flowering continues well into autumn, often until the first hard frosts

  • Winter: Semi-evergreen foliage provides some garden structure in milder areas

 

Hardy Zones and Regional Suitability

  • RHS Hardiness: Hardy in the UK down to temperatures of >-20 degrees Celcius (RHS hardiness rating H7)

  • Temperature Tolerance: Excellent cold tolerance, suited for most temperate climates

  • Regional Notes: Performs well in most UK conditions with adequate moisture

  • Challenging Conditions: Excellent for exposed positions and coastal areas with good soil preparation

 

Special Features

'Queen of Orange' is particularly noted for its exceptional flower power, with individual plants capable of producing dozens of blooms simultaneously during peak season. The warm orange colour is one of the most vibrant available in hardy perennials, and the semi-double form provides extra substance and longevity compared to single-flowered varieties.

 

Why Choose Geum 'Queen of Orange'?

Geum 'Queen of Orange' represents outstanding value for gardeners seeking vibrant, long-flowering perennials with exceptional garden performance. Its brilliant orange semi-double flowers and exceptionally long flowering season set it apart from common garden plants, whilst the robust growth habit and reliable nature make it perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners. The combination of stunning colour, extended seasonal interest, excellent hardiness, and straightforward care requirements makes this an exceptional choice for mixed borders, cottage gardens, and anyone seeking distinctive, reliable colour that performs consistently year after year.

Buying Alpines from Jacksons Nurseries

At Jacksons Nurseries we lightly trim back our alpines after flowering to ensure that the plants remain neat and tidy whilst in the pot. The more tender the plant the less we cut back to help protect exposed stems from winter frost. Depending on the plant variety we will then prune back further in spring once the risk of the more severe frosts is over.

As a result, depending on the time of year you buy alpines, they may not look like images showing their ‘prime time’ in flower and looking at their best.

Availability: Stock availability figures are provided as a guide only. There is a delay between orders being placed and the plants being gathered by our pulling team. During this time it may be possible for a member of the public to purchase these plants from our Garden Centre, while this is rare it is a possibility and we will notify you of any problems as soon as possible. This figure may also include plants that have not yet be flagged as unsaleable.

Pre-order: Pre-order times are given as a guide only and may vary dependent on the growing season. Orders containing Pre-ordered products will be shipped as a single order when all items become available. Large orders may be part shipped, please contact us on 01782 502741 or email orders@jacksonsnurseries.co.uk.

From late autumn onwards and dependant on variety, there may be very little visible above the soil except for a few cut back dormant leaves or stems. It is perfectly normal for dormant plants to look like this from autumn onwards, they will however burst back into life in spring.

Buying Perennials from Jacksons Nurseries

At Jacksons Nurseries we lightly trim back our perennials after flowering and trim them back at the end of the season to ensure that the plants remain neat and tidy whilst in the pot. The more tender the plant the less we cut back to help protect exposed stems from winter frost. Depending on the plant variety we will then prune back further in spring once the risk of the more severe frosts is over.

As a result, depending on the time of year you buy perennials, they may not look like images showing their ‘prime time’ in flower and looking at their best.

From late autumn onwards and dependent on variety, there may be very little visible above the soil except for a few cut back dormant leaves or stems. It is perfectly normal for dormant plants to look like this from autumn onwards, they will however burst back into life in spring.

Availability: Stock availability figures are provided as a guide only. There is a delay between orders being placed and the plants being gathered by our pulling team. During this time it may be possible for a member of the public to purchase these plants from our Garden Centre, while this is rare it is a possibility and we will notify you of any problems as soon as possible. This figure may also include plants that have not yet be flagged as unsaleable.

Pre-order: Pre-order times are given as a guide only and may vary dependent on the growing season. Orders containing Pre-ordered products will be shipped as a single order when all items become available. Large orders may be part shipped, please contact us on 01782 502741 or email sales@jacksonsnurseries.co.uk.

Alpines are a group of perennials that  generally grow in rocky conditions at high altitudes.

As for all plants, soil preparation is time well spent. Dig over the area to be planted ensuring that the ground is free draining. If not then you may wish to either consider planting in a different spot or raising the level of the planting area by adding additional topsoil, well rotted garden compost and/or well rotted manure. Add ‘Fish, Blood and Bone’ fertiliser or a high potash fertiliser to encourage good root growth and development.

It’s always a good idea to plant a few of the same plant together, we recommend planting in 3’s or 5’s to provide a bold effect but allowing them plenty of room to develop.

By using this simple guide and a little time, alpines can make an absolutely spectacular difference to your garden.

Perennials are described and classified differently by different gardeners but all would agree that they are plants that come into flower every year from early spring to late summer, the exact time dependent on variety and most die back to ground level in autumn and winter.

As for all plants, soil preparation is time well spent. Dig over the area to be planted ensuring that the ground is free draining. If not then you may wish to either consider planting in a different spot or raising the level of the planting area by adding additional topsoil, well rotted garden compost and/or well rotted manure. Add ‘Fish, Blood and Bone’ fertiliser or a high potash fertiliser to encourage good root growth and development.

It’s always a good idea to plant a few of the same plant together, we recommend planting in 3’s or 5’s to provide a bold effect but allowing them plenty of room to develop.

Always check eventual plant heights when planning borders to ensure that the taller plants are at the back (or at the centre of an island bed) followed by the medium and then smaller low growing plants.

Remember to deadhead perennials after flowering, trim back lightly in autumn as required to tidy the border and if necessary trim again in spring once the risk of heavy frost has passed.

If perennials get too big, start to flower less and less or if it seems to be dying off from the centre, consider dividing the plant but always check that the particular variety is happy to be divided and that you divide at the right time of year for the plant.

By using this simple guide and a little time, perennials can make an absolutely spectacular difference to your garden.

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