Discover the charm of Coreopsis flowers. Learn about their varieties, care tips and benefits in this comprehensive guide to these cheerful, daisy-like blooms.
Coreopsis, also known as tickseed, is a bright and cheerful flower that brings a splash of sunshine to any garden. Native to North America, these daisy-like blooms are loved by gardeners for their easy care and long flowering season. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Coreopsis flowers.
Here’s an easy-to-understand chart for Coreopsis:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Coreopsis spp. |
| Common Name | Tickseed |
| Plant Zone | 3-9 |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil |
| Watering | Moderate, drought-tolerant once established |
| Growth Habit | Herbaceous perennial or annual |
| Height/Spread | 1-3 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide |
| Special Features | Bright, daisy-like flowers in yellow, pink, red; long blooming period; attracts pollinators; deer-resistant; low maintenance |
What is Coreopsis?
Coreopsis is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. These flowers are known for their:
- Daisy-like appearance
- Bright yellow, orange or red petals
- Long blooming period from summer to fall
Learn more about Coreopsis species from the USDA Plants Database.
Common Varieties
There are many Coreopsis varieties, including:
- Coreopsis grandiflora (Large-flowered Tickseed)
- Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis)
- Coreopsis lanceolata (Lance-leaved Coreopsis)
- Coreopsis rosea (Pink Coreopsis)
The National Garden Bureau offers more information on different Coreopsis varieties.
Growing Coreopsis
Coreopsis is relatively easy to grow if you provide the right conditions:
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-draining soil
- Water: Drought-tolerant once established
- Hardiness: Varies by species, many are hardy in USDA zones 4-9
For detailed growing instructions, visit the Clemson Cooperative Extension website.
Planting and Care
To grow healthy Coreopsis:
- Plant in spring or fall
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers
- Divide perennial varieties every 3-4 years
The University of Minnesota Extension provides more tips on Coreopsis care.
Uses of Coreopsis
Coreopsis has various uses in the garden and beyond:
- Attracts butterflies and other pollinators
- Makes excellent cut flowers
- Used in wildflower meadows and naturalized areas
- Some species have medicinal uses in traditional herbalism
Learn about using Coreopsis in butterfly gardens from the North American Butterfly Association.
Coreopsis in the Garden
Coreopsis can be a versatile addition to your garden:
- Use as border plants
- Plant in rock gardens
- Grow in containers
- Mix with other summer-blooming perennials
For landscaping ideas, check out the Missouri Botanical Garden guide.
Pests and Diseases
While generally hardy, Coreopsis can face some challenges:
- May be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions
- Can attract aphids or spider mites
- Root rot can occur in poorly-drained soils
The Penn State Extension offers advice on managing Coreopsis pests and diseases.
Propagation
You can propagate Coreopsis through:
- Seed sowing
- Division of mature plants
- Stem cuttings
Learn more about propagating perennials from the University of Illinois Extension.
Ecological Benefits
Coreopsis plays an important role in ecosystems:
- Provides nectar for bees and butterflies
- Seeds are a food source for birds
- Native species support local wildlife
Discover more about native plants and ecology at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
Fun Facts about Coreopsis
- The name “Coreopsis” comes from the Greek words “koris” (bug) and “opsis” (appearance), referring to the seed’s resemblance to a tick
- Coreopsis is the state flower of Florida
- Some Native American tribes used Coreopsis to make dyes
Coreopsis in American Gardens
Coreopsis has gained popularity in American gardens due to:
- Its native status, making it well-adapted to local conditions
- Low maintenance requirements
- Long blooming period providing color throughout the summer
Learn more about native plant gardening from the National Wildlife Federation.
Coreopsis is a delightful and easy-to-grow flower that can brighten up any garden. With its cheery blooms, ability to attract pollinators and low maintenance needs, it’s no wonder that Coreopsis has become a favorite among gardeners. Whether you’re looking to support local wildlife or simply add a splash of color to your landscape, Coreopsis is an excellent choice.
For more information on perennial flowers, visit the American Horticultural Society website.
For more gardening tips and plant care guides, visit usagardenhub.com.
