Coreopsis lanceolata
Coreopsis lanceolata is a clump‑forming perennial with bright yellow daisies in late spring. Plants thrive in full sun and well‑drained, sandy or rocky soils. This species tolerates heat, humidity, and drought once established. It is a dependable choice for meadows and naturalized plantings in North America. Deadhead to extend bloom and limit self‑seeding. Division every few years maintains vigor.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: species; perennial
- Height × spread: 12-36 in (30-90 cm) × 12-24 in (30-60 cm)
- Bloom window: May to June (longer with deadheading)
- Color & flower form: yellow, single daisies with notched rays
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 4-9
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown; native to southeastern Canada and south‑central United States
- Cut‑flower notes: stems fairly sturdy; good for cutting; typical vase life unknown / varies by handling
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Blooms earlier than many tickseed species, often in late spring.
- Clump‑forming habit with broader leaves versus threadleaf types.
- Self‑seeds more readily than many named hybrids.
- Performs on lean, sandy or rocky soils where other perennials struggle.
Strengths
- Heat, humidity, and drought tolerant after establishment.
- Deer resistant foliage and flowers.
- Low maintenance with good performance in poor soils.
- Useful for naturalizing and roadside conditions.
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun for strongest stems and best bloom.
- Soil and pH: well‑drained sandy or rocky loam; acidic to neutral.
- Watering: average moisture; allow soil to dry between waterings once established.
- Feeding: avoid rich fertilizers; excess nutrients encourage flopping.
- Grooming: deadhead to extend bloom and reduce reseeding; divide every 2 to 3 years.
- Overwintering: no special protection needed in zones 4 to 9.
Watch‑outs
- Can become weedy without deadheading due to self‑seeding.
- Sprawls in fertile or moist soils.
- Crown rot can occur in poorly drained sites.
Best uses (tags)
meadows; pollinators; naturalizing; cutting; borders
Provenance note
Native from southeastern Canada into the south‑central United States; long cultivated in North American meadows and roadside seed mixes.
References
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox – Coreopsis lanceolata
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – Coreopsis lanceolata
- ASPCA – Coreopsis (Tickseed) non‑toxic to pets
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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