Plains coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria)
Grow Plains coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria) for showy, long-blooming yellow flowers. This low-maintenance annual thrives in dry, poor soils.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Plains coreopsis, or Coreopsis tinctoria, is a highly valued annual known for its vigorous growth and extended flowering season, making it a reliable source of continuous color from early summer until fall frost. Its cheerful, daisy-like flowers feature bright yellow rays contrasted sharply by a deep reddish-brown central disk, offering excellent visual impact in mixed plantings. This species is remarkably adaptable, tolerating conditions where many other ornamental annuals struggle.
Native primarily to the central and eastern United States, Coreopsis tinctoria has naturalized far beyond its original range due to its ease of cultivation. Gardeners appreciate its low maintenance needs and its resilience against common garden stresses. It readily supports local ecosystems, providing nectar for butterflies throughout its long bloom period.
Whether used for mass plantings in meadows or as an accent in borders, Plains coreopsis provides significant texture and color without demanding rich soil or consistent watering. Its stiff, upright stems support abundant flowers, confirming its status as a garden workhorse.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Asteraceae
- Plant Type: Annual
- Native Range: Central and eastern United States
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 2-11
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 2-4 ft
- Spread: 1-1.5 ft
- Bloom Time: June to September
- Bloom Description: Yellow rays with reddish-brown center disk
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Dry to medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
For the best performance, sow the seeds of Coreopsis tinctoria directly into the garden once all danger of frost has passed, as this annual dislikes transplanting once established. Alternatively, you can start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date and transplant the seedlings out after the soil has warmed. This plant prefers well-drained soil and demands full sun, though it will tolerate light afternoon shade.
Plains coreopsis thrives in poor, dry, or rocky soils, exhibiting excellent tolerance for heat and humidity once established. Water sparingly; aim for dry to medium soil moisture levels—overwatering is often more detrimental than brief dry spells. Fertilization is rarely necessary, as rich soil encourages excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
To maximize the bloom display through September, employ prompt deadheading of spent flowers. This practice not only keeps the plant looking tidy but also efficiently prevents unwanted self-seeding, which can sometimes occur too heavily in ideal cultural conditions. Taller varieties may benefit from staking if the stems are exposed to strong winds, though the native structure is typically quite sturdy.
Landscape Uses
Plains coreopsis is exceptionally versatile, excelling in large-scale naturalized settings such as native wildflower gardens, meadows, and prairies where its height (up to 4 ft) creates vertical interest. It is highly effective planted along roadsides or in low-maintenance banks where harsh conditions prevail. For traditional gardens, use this annual in borders to add a burst of late-season color near the front or middle rows.
This species pairs beautifully with plants that share its love for sun and tolerant soil conditions. Consider combining Coreopsis tinctoria with drought-tolerant companions like coneflowers (Echinacea), black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia), or ornamental grasses that appreciate similar dry, slightly leaner soil environments. Its bright colors create excellent contrast against blues and purples.
Because it performs so well in poor, dry soils, Plains coreopsis is an excellent choice for filling difficult, neglected areas of the landscape that require robust, low-input planting. For large plantings, the seeds can be broadcast for a naturalistic, meadow-style effect.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Good Cut
Noteworthy Characteristics
Coreopsis tinctoria, commonly called Plains coreopsis, garden coreopsis, golden tickseed or calliopsis, is an annual coreopsis that is native to the western U.S. (west of the Mississippi River). It is commonly cultivated in gardens as an annual and has over time naturalized throughout most of the eastern U. S. The genus name Coreopsis derives from Greek words meaning “bug-like,” referencing the shape of the seed which resembles a tick.
Tolerances
- Deer
- Drought
- Clay Soil
- Dry Soil
- Shallow-Rocky Soil
Potential Problems
This plant generally exhibits no serious insect or disease problems, making it an easy choice for low-maintenance gardening. The primary concern relates to its height; taller specimens, particularly those growing in slightly richer soil or sheltered from breezes, may require some support to prevent flopping, especially if exposed to high winds. Ensure that stems are adequately spaced to promote good air circulation, even though disease pressure is low.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Plains coreopsis suitable for?
Plains coreopsis is remarkably adaptable, thriving across USDA Zones 2 through 11 as a reliable summer-blooming annual.
How large does Coreopsis tinctoria grow?
This annual typically reaches a height between 2 and 4 feet, with a spread generally maintaining a narrow habit of 1 to 1.5 feet wide.
What sun exposure does Plains coreopsis need?
Coreopsis tinctoria requires full sun exposure to produce its best flowers and maintain a compact, sturdy habit throughout the summer.
When does Plains coreopsis bloom?
You can expect vibrant blooms on Plains coreopsis from June all the way through September, featuring its signature yellow rays with reddish-brown center disks.
Conclusion
The Plains coreopsis is an outstanding annual for gardeners seeking vibrant, continuous, deer-resistant color without needing intensive care. Its ability to flourish in dry and poor soils minimizes water dependency and fertility requirements, proving the value of Coreopsis tinctoria in sustainable landscape design. Check your local frost dates and plan to sow directly outdoors early in the season to enjoy its full summer display.
Wildlife Benefits
The long bloom window of Coreopsis tinctoria from June through September makes it an invaluable resource for pollinators throughout the warm season. The bright, composite blooms are highly attractive to various species of butterflies actively foraging for nectar during the peak summer months.
Furthermore, once flowering concludes, the spent seed heads become a food source for local songbirds. Allowing some spent flowers to remain standing until late fall, or early winter if necessary, provides both aesthetic texture and necessary sustenance for bird populations.
Propagation Tips
As an annual, the most reliable means of propagation for Plains coreopsis is by seed. The plant freely self-seeds, which can be beneficial if you desire a naturalized look each subsequent year without yearly replanting. To control its spread, however, diligently deadhead spent flowers before they mature into seed capsules.
If you wish to manage the timing precisely, starting seeds indoors 6-8 weeks prior to the last expected spring frost is recommended. Handle the young seedlings gently when transplanting, ensuring they are situated in their permanent sunny, well-drained spot only after the danger of frost has completely passed.
