Coreopsis(Tickseed) : The Sunny Tickseed Flower

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:

AttributeDetails
Botanical NameCoreopsis spp.
Common NameTickseed
Plant Zone3-9
Sun ExposureFull Sun
Soil TypeWell-drained, sandy or loamy soil
WateringModerate, drought-tolerant once established
Growth HabitHerbaceous perennial or annual
Height/Spread1-3 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide
Special FeaturesBright, daisy-like flowers in yellow, pink, red; long blooming period; attracts pollinators; deer-resistant; low maintenance

What is Coreopsis?

Yellow and red Coreopsis flower with brown centers.

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:

  1. Coreopsis grandiflora (Large-flowered Tickseed)
  2. Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis)
  3. Coreopsis lanceolata (Lance-leaved Coreopsis)
  4. 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:

  1. Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
  2. Soil: Well-draining soil
  3. Water: Drought-tolerant once established
  4. 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:

  1. Plant in spring or fall
  2. Space plants 12-18 inches apart
  3. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers
  4. 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:

  1. Seed sowing
  2. Division of mature plants
  3. 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.

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