oh, sorry, and low! :)

Orange zinnias, celosia, &/or calibrachoa would all fit the bill...

Calendula?

I'm crazy about Zinnia angustifolia Crystal series. I grow some of the Crystal White every year, but there is also a very nice Crystal Orange.

These zinnias are very small but solidly robust. They bloom all season long (until frost) with zero fading out in the full summer sun and heat, zero dead heading required, and nary a problem with diseases or pests.

The plants form uniform 8-10 inch mounds, very attractive to butterflies, skippers, and bees.

I plant a border of the crystal whites every single year to act as unifying element for a large mixed annual/perennial bed. The border looks sort of like a frilly white petticoat underneath a brightly colored skirt. :-)

I really can't speak more highly of any plant that serves as a border.

Try Magellan orange Zinnia. Magellan comes in a few colors including orange. It has a huge 4 inch flower on a 12 inch plant. I have had most colors and all preformed well, The seed is rather expensive but not more than buying plants. It is fast growing so you can plant seeds outside as soon as the ground warms.

Orange Maverick geraniums?

y'all that is helpful and hopeful! thank you so much!