Fox-and-cubs
Hieracium aurantiacum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–18" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
VT
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Fox-and-cubs produces bright orange dandelion-like flowers on short stems from June through August. This low-growing perennial spreads by runners to form dense patches in sunny, dry areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fox-and-cubs takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Non-native invasive species
- Can spread aggressively
- May be considered weedy by neighbors
Wildlife value
The bright orange flowers attract bees and butterflies during the summer blooming period. The dense growth habit can provide ground-level shelter for small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Fox-and-cubs need?
- Fox-and-cubs grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Fox-and-cubs bloom?
- Fox-and-cubs blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Fox-and-cubs native?
- Fox-and-cubs (Hieracium aurantiacum) is native to VT, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Fox-and-cubs attract?
- Fox-and-cubs draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Fox-and-cubs HOA-friendly?
- Fox-and-cubs takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Fox-and-cubs? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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