Ear-leaved tickseed (Coreopsis auriculata 'Nana')

Overview

Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’, often called Ear-leaved tickseed, is a highly desirable dwarf selection noted for its vigorous, low-growing habit and cheerful blooms. This stoloniferous perennial creates a dense, bushy clump perfect for brightening the front of sunny borders where larger varieties might overwhelm. Gardeners appreciate the long season of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that appear from late spring into early summer.

As a selection of Coreopsis auriculata, this variety maintains the parent plant’s resilience while offering a more compact footprint, typically reaching less than a foot tall. It is generally a low-maintenance plant, thriving with minimal intervention once established in the correct sunny site. The slightly lobed leaves further distinguish this cultivar, offering textural interest even when not in bloom.

The vibrant yellow display of Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’ makes it an excellent naturalizing choice, slowly spreading to form attractive colonies across the landscape. Its tolerance for some dryness, once established, adds to its practical value in mixed perennial beds or along paths needing reliable summer color.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Asteraceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-9
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 0.5-0.75 ft
  • Spread: 0.5-0.75 ft
• Bloom Time: May to June
• Bloom Description: Yellow
• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Plant Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’ in the spring or early fall after the danger of hard frost has passed. Locate it in full sun, which is essential for prolific blooming and maintaining a compact habit. While the plant easily handles medium moisture conditions, ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root issues.

Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist during the establishment period. Once robust, this Ear-leaved tickseed displays good tolerance for humidity and some dry spells, though it is not as drought-tolerant as some other Coreopsis species. Fertilization is generally unnecessary; rich soils can cause the plant to sprawl, increasing maintenance needs.

Deadheading spent blooms promptly can encourage a sparser but extended bloom into the fall. Alternatively, you may shear the entire plant in mid-summer to tidy its appearance and promote a cleaner flush of fall rebloom, especially in hotter climates where summer dormancy can occur.

This stoloniferous perennial will slowly spread over time, forming appealing groundcover colonies which are easily managed. For rejuvenating older clumps or increasing your stock of Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’, division is best performed in the spring.

Landscape Uses

The compact stature and continuous bright yellow flowers make this mound of Ear-leaved tickseed ideal for the front of borders or as an edging material along walkways. It blends seamlessly with other sun-loving perennials, providing a reliable splash of color throughout early summer.

Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’ is highly effective when massed or planted in groups, creating a seamless swath of gold that draws the eye across the garden design. Its ability to naturalize slightly means it is perfect for softer, meadow-style plantings where you desire low, drifting color accents.

Consider pairing this tickseed with contrasting textures or colors, such as deep purple Salvia or silvery foliage plants that thrive in full sun conditions. Its low profile ensures it never obscures taller companions planted directly behind it.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

The genus name Coreopsis refers to the Greek words for “bug-like” due to the seed shape, while the specific epithet auriculatus references the ear-like lobes at the base of the leaves, giving rise to the common name Mouse Ear Coreopsis. This dwarf selection, ‘Nana’, typically reaches only 6 to 9 inches tall, making it excellent for crisp border fronts. It should be propagated via division or cuttings as it will not breed true from seed.

Tolerances

• Deer
• Dry Soil

Potential Problems

Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’ generally remains free from serious pests or diseases under ideal conditions. The main management challenge arises from overly moist or fertile soils, which encourage a sprawling habit rather than a tight mound. Avoid planting in constantly wet, poorly drained locations, as this significantly increases the risk of crown rot. In intense summer heat, if soils are allowed to remain dry for too long, you may observe foliage decline, necessitating consistent medium watering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Ear-leaved tickseed suitable for?

Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’ is successfully grown across USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9.

How large does Ear-leaved tickseed grow?

This dwarf selection typically reaches a height between 0.5 and 0.75 feet, with a similar spread of 0.5 to 0.75 feet.

What sun exposure does Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’ need?

For the best performance and most compact growth, this perennial requires full sun exposure.

When does Ear-leaved tickseed bloom?

It produces its characteristic yellow, daisy-like flowers primarily from May to June.

Conclusion

The dwarf Ear-leaved tickseed, Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’, offers exceptional value through its low height, deer resistance, and bright, long-lasting yellow flowers. Incorporating this tough, low-maintenance plant into your sunny borders provides reliable seasonal impact without demanding extensive care. Check your microclimate against USDA Zones 4-9 and plan your planting this spring to enjoy its early summer display.

Companion Planting

When selecting companions for Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’, focus on plants that share its love for full sun and medium moisture without requiring excessively rich soil. Plants with contrasting foliage color or texture make excellent partners; consider pairing the fine-textured yellow blooms with the deeper greens or blues of plants like Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia), or the silver foliage of Lamb’s Ears (Stachys byzantina). For a cohesive cottage garden look, place it near lower-growing Geraniums or creeping Thyme, ensuring all species benefit from the excellent drainage this tickseed variety requires.

Propagation Tips

While the promise of perennial saving often involves seed collection, Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’ will not reliably return true to the desirable dwarf form if sown from seed. The most effective method for increasing your stock or refreshing older patches is vegetative division. Wait until early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge, to carefully dig up the entire clump. Gently separate the spreading stoloniferous roots into smaller, manageable sections, ensuring each new division has healthy root structure attached. Replant these divisions immediately into prepared, well-draining soil.