Orangefruit Horse-gentian
Triosteum aurantiacum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AR, CT, DE, GA and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Orangefruit horse-gentian is a perennial that grows 1-3 feet tall with broad, opposite leaves and small reddish flowers in late spring and early summer. The plant produces distinctive bright orange berries in fall that give it its common name.
In an HOA neighborhood
Orangefruit Horse-gentian 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.
- Coarse, weedy appearance that doesn't match typical landscaping expectations
- Large leaves and informal growth habit look unkempt to many homeowners
- Uncommon plant that HOAs may not recognize as intentional landscaping
Wildlife value
This plant attracts bees and beetles during its May through July bloom period. The orange berries provide food for birds in late summer and fall.
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.
Does Orangefruit Horse-gentian fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.