Coreopsis

( koh - ree - OP - siss )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of annual and perennial flowering plants are commonly known as Tickseed or Calliopsis, and grow best in full sun with little to moderate water. These flowers will attract butterflies and bees to your garden and the seed pods that follow are a classic bird favorite. They are easy to grow, and bloom profusely in shades of yellow, orange, maroon and red. Most commonly sold species and varietals are native to the eastern and southern United States. Use Coreopsis in mixed beds for pops of color, in containers, or to line walkways. They can also be used to fill in wildflower meadow plantings.

Coreopsis Species and Varietals

The genus Coreopsis includes between 80 and 100 species, and is a member of the plant family Asteraceae. The genus name is derived from the Greek words for bug (koris) and view (opsis), referring to the bug-shaped seeds produced after flowers fade. The best growing zones for Coreopsis vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Coreopsis auriculata (Lobed Tickseed, Mouse-Ear Tickseed, Eared Coreopsis)
This perennial reaches between 4 and 12 inches tall at maturity, and bloom in April through June in their native range. Flowers are yellow to orange-yellow. Variety 'Nana' creates a mat about 5-6 inches tall, spreading by underground runners to 2 feet wide; it makes a great groundcover. Best in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.

Coreopsis basalis (Coreopsis wrightii) (Goldenmane Tickseed, Golden Wave Tickseed, Golden Wave, Texas Coreopsis, Texas Tickseed, Dye Flower)
This species produces yellow flowers with red centers, and is native to the southeastern and south-central areas of the United States. It does well in USDA hardiness zones 3-12. These bushy annuals reach 2 feet tall in just one season, and readily grow in open areas, disturbed soils, and wild landscapes.

Coreopsis bigelovii (Bigelow Coreopsis, Bigelow's Tickseed)
Endemic to California, this species is an annual and produces many flowering stems topped with solitary yellow flowers. Historically, this plant was consumed by the native Kawaiisu and Tubatulabal indigenous peoples of California, eaten raw or as a cooked vegetable. These flowers grow well in UDSA hardiness zones 4-9.

Coreopsis californica (Leptosyne gigantea) (Giant Coreopsis)
These plants are found growing naturally in dry habitats of California and Baja California, Mexico. This is an annual, herbaceous species that produces shows of yellow flowers from March through May, and reaches about a foot tall at maturity. These plants form a basal tuft of green foliage from which flower stems arise.

Coreopsis calliopsidea (Leafstem Tickseed, Leafy Stem Coreopsis, Leaf-Stem Tickseed)
This species is endemic to California, where it grows in the desert and amongst the southern mountain ranges. These annual plants produce yellow flowers and reach a little over 16 inches tall when mature. Foliage is slightly fleshy or succulent. This species does well in USDA hardiness zones 8a-9b.

Coreopsis delphiniifolia (Larkspurleaf Tickseed, Larkspur Tickseed, Larkspur Coreposis)
These plants are primarily native to the Carolinas and Georgia, and are considered to be members of an endangered species. This species produces perennial plants that produce yellow flowers and grow to a maximum height of 3 feet tall. This species grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4-10.

Coreopsis gigantea (Giant Coreopsis, Giant Tickseed, Giant Sea Dahlia)
This woody perennial species is native to coastal areas in central and southern California as well as northern Baja California. The woody base of these plants is bare, foliage and flowers being produced only on newer growth. Blooms are yellow and emerge from spring through early summertime. These plants are sold as ornamentals by specialty nurseries, and are commonly planted in drought tolerant, native, and wildlife gardens. This species grows well in USDA hardiness zones 9b-11b and is considered invasive in parts of Australia and Japan.

Coreopsis grandiflora (Large-Flowered Tickseed)
This hardy perennial does best in zones 2-24, H1 and H2. It grows to 1-2 feet tall and 3 feet wide, and has dark green foliage. Bright yellow flowers will bloom all summer on long, slender stems. Varieties include 'Flying Saucers' (2-inch wide yellow flowers), 'Sunburst' (with semi-double flowers that bloom in the first year and spread through self-sowing), 'Early Sunrise', and 'Sunray' (a dense, compact variety with double and semi-double flowers). This species is considered invasive in China and regions of Australia.

Coreopsis hamiltonii (leptosyne hamiltonii) (Mt. Hamilton Coreopsis, Mt. Hamilton Tickseed)
This rare species is endemic to California, specifically Mount Hamilton and the Diablo Range in the San Francisco Bay Area. These plants typically reach about 8 inches tall at maximum and produce bright golden-yellow flowers that flower from March through May. Foliage is deeply cut, and has a ferny look to it.

Coreopsis spp. Hybrids (Hybrid Coreopsis)
This group includes both annuals and perennials, and have a wide range of flower colors and types. Perennial varieties grow best in USDA hardiness zones 4-9 or Sunset growing zones 2a-24 and bloom in late spring through fall. Most reach around 2 feet tall and 2.5 feet wide at maturity, and do best with moderate water. These plants include a wide variety of sizes and flower colors, and many of them can be treated as perennials in mild-winter areas. Individual varieties are outlined below:

'Autumn Blush'
Butter-yellow flowers with red centers that turn reddish-pink in cooler weather.

'Limerock Ruby'
Perennial variety with inch-wide ruby-red flowers.

'Limerock Passion'
Lavender-pink flowers with yellow centers. Perennial.

'Snowberry'
Perennial plant with creamy white flowers with red centers.

'Sterntaler'
Flowers are yellow with a brown-red center. Perennial.

'Tequila Sunrise'
Compact variety to 1.5 feet tall and 1 foot wide; flowers are golden yellow with orange-red centers. Variegated foliage. Perennial.

'Citrine'
Bright yellow flowers, compact variety. Part of the 'Jewel' series. Perennial.

'Ruby Frost'
Part of the 'Jewel' series, flowers are deep red edged in white. Perennial.

'Garnet'
Part of the 'Jewel' series'; with red flowers. Perennial.

'Little Penny'
Annual; compact variety (1 foot tall and 2 feet wide), with small copper-red blooms.

'Punch' Series
Carries flowers in bright reds, oranges, yellows, and red/white bicolors. Annuals.

'Lemonade' Series
Carries flowers in red, pink, or rose, and has feathery golden foliage. Annuals.

Coreopsis integrifolia (Fringeleaf Tickseed, Mouse-Ear Tickseed)
Native to Georgia, South Carolina, and northern areas of Florida, this species reaches 2 feet tall and produces yellow flower heads in spring and summertime. These plants are considered critically imperiled in their native range due to habitat destruction. This species grows best in USDA hardiness zones 5a-9b.

Coreopsis intermedia (Goldenwave Tickseed, Golden-Wave)
These small plants produce yellow flower heads and reaches about 3 feet tall at maturity when in bloom. Foliage and stems are green. This species is native to North America. Goldenwave Tickseed does well in USDA hardiness zones 3-11.

Coreopsis lanceolata (Lanceleaf Tickseed, Lanceleaf Coreopsis, Lance-Leaved Coreopsis, Sand Coreopsis)
This perennial species grows best in USDA hardiness zones 3-9 or Sunset growing zones 1-24, H1 and H2. It reaches 1-2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide when mature with hairy foliage and yellow blooms that appear in late spring and summer. The flowers are great as cut flowers. This species is considered invasive in certain regions of the world, including Japan, China, and Eastern Australia.

Coreopsis latifolia (Broad-Leaved Tickseed, Broadleaf Coreopsis)
These plants reach up to 5 feet tall, and have larger leaves than many of the other species in the genus. Flowers are yellow, and bloom from August through September in their native range (the southeastern United States). This species is listed as vulnerable to extinction due to habitat loss and grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.

Coreopsis leavenworthii (Leavenworth's Tickseed, Florida Tickseed)
These annual or short-lived perennial plants reach between 12 and 28 inches tall at maturity and bloom in May, June, and July in their natural habitat. This species is native to Florida and Alabama, and produces yellow flowers, sometimes with reddish-brown blotches towards the center. This species does well in USDA hardiness zones 8-11 and is the official state wildflower of Florida in the United States.

Coreopsis maritima (Leptosyne maritima) (Sea Dahlia, Beach Coreopsis)
This perennial grows best in USDA hardiness zones 8a-11 and Sunset growing zones 14-24 and is native to the coastline of Southern California. This species grows from a tuberous taproot, and leaves are somewhat succulent. Flowers are yellow and sit atop 9-12 inch stems and are great for fresh arrangements.

Coreposis nudata (Georgia Tickseed, Swamp Tickseed, Swamp Coreopsis)
This herbaceous perennial plant species is native to Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. These plants can sometimes reach up to 40 inches tall, making them amongst the tallest in the genus. Flowers are pink to purple in color. Georgia Tickseed prefers to grow in swamps, ditches, disturbed areas and in pine barrens. Georgia Tickseed grows well in USDA hardiness zones 8a-10.

Coreopsis nuecensis (Crown Tickseed, Crown Coreopsis)
This plant is native to Texas and Louisiana and can reach up to 20 inches tall at maturity. This is an annual herbaceous plant, with yellow flowers that have distinctive red to purple markings towards the center. Crown Tickseed grows well in disturbed soils, sandy soils, and at the edges of woodland areas. This species grows well in USDA hardiness zones 2-11.

Coreopsis petrophila
This species is native to western Mexico and forms a branching subshrub that reaches about 3 feet tall when mature and in bloom. These plants prefer to grow on rocky slopes, and flowers are borne in groups, unlike the singular flower heads of many other species in the Coreopsis genus.

Coreopsis palustris (Swamp Tickseed, Beadle's Tickseed)
These plants, which can reach 4 feet tall at maturity, can be found growing in wet areas from southeastern North Carolina to northern Florida. A popular garden ornamental variety is called 'Summer Sunshine', which blooms early in the fall. Beadle's Tickseed grows well in USDA hardiness zones 6-9.

Coreopsis pubescens (Star Tickseed, Downy Tickseed)
These perennials reach 3 feet tall and take on a bushy habit, producing yellow flowers in spring and summertime. They are native to the eastern, southern, and central areas of the United States. Star Tickseed grows well in USDA hardiness zones 3-9. Cultivar 'Sunshine Superman' is a popular garden ornamental that does well in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.

Coreopsis pulchra (Showy Tickseed, Woodland Tickseed, Beautiful Tickseed)
This species is native to Alabama, where it prefers to grow amongst rocky outcroppings. Showy Tickseed grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4-9. It is considered to be an imperiled species due to habitat destruction and climate change, and due to the fact that it has relatively narrow habitat requirements to survive. Yellow flowers bloom from June through September, and plants reach about 2 feet tall at maturity when in bloom.

Coreopsis rosea (Pink Tickseed, Pink Coreopsis, Rose Coreopsis, Small Rose Tickseed)
This delicate-looking perennial blooms in summertime through fall, and has pink flowers with yellow centers. This species prefers moist soil and grows best in USDA hardiness zones 3-9 or Sunset growing zones 2b-24. It is considered an imperiled species. Individual plants reach up to 1.5 to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide at maturity when in bloom. Popularly grown garden varieties are outlined below:

'American Dream'
Rosy-pink flowers with yellow centers.

'Heaven's Gate'
Flowers are pink with a dark crimson center.

'Sweet Dreams'
Leaves are threadlike, and flowers are white with a raspberry ring around a yellow center.

Coreopsis stillmanii (Stillman's Coreopsis, Stillman's Tickseed, Golden Tickseed)
Endemic to California, this species is an annual that reaches 12 inches tall when in bloom. It forms somewhat fleshy leaves around the base of the plant and low in stems. Flowers are yellow, and bloom in summertime. Stillman's Tickseed grows well in USDA hardiness zones 3-11.

Coreopsis tinctoria (Coreopsis bicolor) (Annual Coreopsis, Calliopsis, Plains Coreopsis, Golden Tickseed, Garden Tickseed)
This annual grows best in USDA hardiness zones 2-11 and Sunset growing zones 1-24, H1 and H2. The species is native to North America. It has an upright habit, reaching 1.5-3 feet tall and about half as wide at maturity. Stems are wiry, and both stems and leaves are smooth. Flowers bloom summer through fall and come in yellow, orange, maroon, bronze, and red and are banded with contrasting colors. Centers are purplish-brown. Available in dwarf and double-bloom varieties. This species is considered invasive in areas of China, Australia, and Europe. They readily naturalize and spread aggressively, filling roadsides and disturbed fields due to prolific self-seeding.

Coreopsis tripteris (Tall Tickseed, Tall Coreopsis, Atlantic Coreopsis)
These plants reach up to 40 inches tall when mature and in bloom, and are native to eastern and central areas of the United States, as well as southeastern Canada. Flowers are yellow, and centers are dark brown to black. Naturally, these plants prefer to grow in streambanks and wet meadows where their roots stay moist for long periods of time. These plants are available at nurseries in their native range for sale as ornamental garden plants. Tall Tickseed grows well in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.

Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis, Whorled Tickseed, Whorled Coreopsis)
Perennial, grows best in USDA hardiness zones 3-9 or Sunset growing zones 1-24. Reaches 2.5-3 feet tall and half as wide at maturity. Leaves are carried in a whorl pattern and yellow flowers bloom at stem tips from summer through fall. Varieties include 'Moonbeam' (1.5-2 feet tall with pale yellow flowers), 'Grandiflora' (with larger flowers than the species) and 'Zagreb' (1 foot tall with golden-yellow flowers). Very easy to grow, and tolerant of drought.

Caring for Coreopsis

Plant Coreopsis in early springtime. Plants can be purchased as starts from a reputable nursery or grown from seed (direct sown or started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost of the year). They are commonly planted in the ground, as well as in beds and containers. Tickseed plants should be placed in a spot in the garden that receives full sun during the day. Ideally, these flowers prefer to get between 6 and 8 hours of sun each day. Not enough sunlight will result in a leggy plant that produces fewer flowers. Coreopsis like a rich, well-draining soil medium, and are not picky about soil acidity (pH). If local soils are particularly poor in nutrients or do not drain well, make sure to amend the planting area with plenty of organic compost before installing. After planting, apply a thick layer of mulch around the planting area to suppress weed growth, increase soil moisture retention, and maintain a constant soil temperature. Ensure that mulch does not go right up to the stems, as this creates an environment that favors fungal diseases. Taller species or cultivars of Coreopsis may need to be staked, otherwise their flowering stems will flop over, especially in breezy areas of the garden.

Water new plantings regularly as they develop a strong root system. At maturity, these plants have shallow root systems, and prefer frequent waterings to bloom well. This is especially true in high heat situations. As a general rule of thumb, water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Two to three times during the growing season from spring through fall, pinch plants back by about an inch to encourage a strong branching system to develop. Deadhead spent flowers frequently to clean up the appearance of the plant and to discourage self-sowing. Deadheading will also encourage more blooms to form. Fertilize yearly in early springtime with a application of 2 inches of compost around the base of plants. Pull mulch back before applying, work the compost gently into the soil a bit, water it in, and then replace mulch. These plants are not heavy feeders, and this should be sufficient to provide the necessary nutrients for the active growing and flowering seasons. Annual species are typically pulled at the end of the year and composted, or left in place to enrich soil. Perennial species of Coreopsis typically last from 3-5 years before needing to be replaced. Both perennial and annual species will freely re-seed in the garden, providing flowers indefinitely.

Caring for Coreopsis in Containers
Coreopsis flowers can also be grown in containers. Choose a container that is at least a few inches wider and deeper than the nursery pot or root ball. The container should be at least 8-10 inches wide and just as deep. Ensure that the pot has adequate drainage holes on the bottom to allow for excess water to flow away. Fill with a well-draining potting mix amended with organic material and perlite, and top with a layer of mulch to suppress weed growth, maintain consistent soil temperatures, and to increase soil moisture retention. Water regularly as the plant establishes itself in its new home. Once established, waterings can be lessened. Coreopsis grown in containers will need more frequent irrigation than their in-ground counterparts. As a general rule of thumb, water whenever the top few inches of soil feels dry to the touch. Prune to remove dead, damaged, or diseased foliage at any time during the growing season. For perennial species, every few years check the bottom of the pot to ensure that the plant is not outgrowing its root space. If roots are growing through the drainage holes in the bottom of the container, it is a good indication that it needs to be potted up; choose a slightly larger container and repot. Annual species are typically pulled at the end of the year and composted.

Harvesting Coreopsis
Coreopsis, in addition to being a great pollinator and ornamental plant, also makes a great cut flower. They are harvested over a long season from late spring through fall, offering long-lasting and cheerful blooms. Popular choices for cut flower species include Coreopsis grandiflora, Coreopsis verticillata, and Coreopsis tinctoria. Taller varieties may need to be netted or staked to remain upright, especially in breezy areas of the garden. The best time of day to harvest cut flowers is in the morning, after dew has dried but before the heat of the day sets in. Cut flower stems towards their base using clean, sharp shears and drop them into a bucket of cool water immediately. Before arranging, remove any leaves that will be under the water line.

Propagation

Both annual and perennial kinds of Coreopsis are easy to propagate. Annuals are best propagated from seed and perennials can be propagated either from seed or division. Plants tend to self-sow, as well, so there may be some plants that pop up in the landscape that can simply be dug up and placed elsewhere. To propagate your Tickseed flower, follow the instructions below:

Propagating Coreopsis by Seed

Keep in mind that the plant you get from seed will not necessarily mimic all of the characteristics of the parent plant. To propagate by seed, you will need a paper bag, a pot or tray filled with well-draining compost or other organic material, a spray bottle and a fork. The best potting medium for seed germination is a light blend of 1/3 pasteurized soil or compost, 1/3 sand, vermiculite or perlite, and 1/3 coconut coir or peat moss.
Harvest your seeds. The seed heads on plants are pretty easy to spot, they're left behind after flowers have faded. Once they have dried out and begun to split open, you can harvest the seeds inside. Cut them off of the plant, placing them in a paper bag. Harvest as many as you can, and place the paper bag in a dry, cool, dark area. They will continue to split open and release the seeds contained inside. Once they have been released, take them out of the bag and put them in a container so you can work with them.
In either late winter or early springtime, get your container prepared. Water your prepared seed tray or pot filled with soil, and ensure that good drainage is occurring. Place your seeds in your prepared pot or seed tray about a quarter inch to a half-inch under the soil surface. Cover them with soil and water with your spray bottle. Place your tray of seeds in a warm area that receives bright, indirect light. A greenhouse is the most ideal climate, but a planting tray inside a window will do as well. Germination usually takes 2-6 weeks from sowing.
Keep the seedling's potting medium moist, but not wet, by spraying the soil with your spray bottle. Keep your new plant in an area with bright light (though not direct sunlight) and temperatures between 65 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that the soil stays moist, but not wet, until the next spring (after the danger of frost has passed), when you can transplant it to its new home.
Alternatively, Coreopsis can be direct-sown into a prepared garden bed, covered with a light dusting of soil. Keep soil moist until plants are established, and then follow general care instructions.

Propagating Coreopsis by Division
This type of propagation is relatively simple; you will need a clean shovel, mulch, fresh soil, compost and pots (only necessary if you will be saving divided plants for transporting elsewhere). Division is best done in early spring (just as plants start pushing out new growth), and needs to be done every few years for perennial species for best performance, especially if you are growing these flowers in a container or raised bed. To propagate by division, follow these steps:

Using a shovel, dig up your existing plant. Start from the outside and work your way in to avoid damaging the root(s). Once you have worked it up out of the ground, lay it out.
Start to tease apart the roots with your gloved fingers. Once the roots are untangled, separate your plant into segments, ensuring that each one has at least one thick root section attached.
Prepare your pot(s) or new planting site(s) with amended, well-draining soil. You can either bring in new soil or simply amend your existing soil with compost to complete this task. Then, plant your divisions and water thoroughly.
Apply a thick layer of mulch over the new planting to protect it from cold weather as it acclimates to its new home. Then, enjoy watching it sprout in the next growing season.

Coreopsis seed heads hold many thin, black seeds.

Coreopsis seeds are tiny, black and elongated.

Problems and Pests

Coreopsis plants are considered invasive in some areas; check the species descriptions above for more information. Check with local authorities before planting. Overall, Coreopsis, or Tickseed, plants are problem-free in the landscape. They may have issues from time to time, however, with the following pests and diseases: