Tickseed (Coreopsis rosea)

Overview

Coreopsis rosea, commonly known as Tickseed, stands out in the genus for its unique coloration. It is perhaps the only coreopsis variety that reliably offers striking pink rays surrounding a contrasting yellow disk, making it a vital accent in native or cottage gardens. This herbaceous perennial forms airy, fine-textured clumps that bloom profusely throughout much of the summer months.

While rated low maintenance overall, the needs of Coreopsis rosea differ slightly from its heat-loving relatives. It prefers consistently moist, well-drained soils and thrives best in the cooler reaches of its hardiness range (Zones 3-8). Gardeners should be aware that while it spreads nicely by rhizomes, resulting in good ground cover, this growth habit can sometimes lean toward aggressive spreading under ideal conditions.

The light, grass-like foliage provides an excellent backdrop for the daisy-like flowers, lending an airy quality to borders and rock gardens. If you are searching for reliably bright color lasting from June through September, this unique Tickseed variety warrants inclusion in your landscape plans.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Asteraceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Native Range: Nova Scotia to Maryland
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-8
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 1-2 ft
  • Spread: 1.5-2.5 ft
• Bloom Time: June to September
• Bloom Description: Pink rays with yellow disks
• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Plant Coreopsis rosea in the spring or fall once hard frosts have passed, ensuring it receives full sun exposure to maximize flowering potential. The key to success with this particular Tickseed is soil moisture; it demands medium moisture and requires well-drained conditions. Avoid heavy clay soils where crown rot can easily develop. Good drainage is paramount, even though this species lacks the strong drought tolerance often associated with other Coreopsis species.

Watering should be consistent, especially during hotter periods, to keep the soil moist but never soggy. Fertilization is generally not required if the native soil conditions are adequately rich and draining well. Deadheading spent flower stalks is recommended to encourage repeat blooms, although this can be time-consuming if you have established, large drifts of this flowing perennial. If stems become matted or gangly by late summer, shearing the plants back can tidy them up and promote a renewed flush of fall color.

In optimal, cool summer settings, this rhizomatous perennial will readily spread to form a dense, attractive ground cover. Be mindful of its spreading nature near delicate neighboring plants, as it can become vigorous.

Landscape Uses

The fine texture and long bloom season of Coreopsis rosea make it invaluable for adding soft movement to garden designs. Its height (1–2 ft) and airy habit suit its use as an effective edger along walkways, foundations, or property lines where a delicate, low-maintenance barrier is desired. Due to its tendency to naturalize, this Tickseed excels in native plant gardens or informal cottage settings where it can weave through other plantings.

Consider pairing the pink flowers with blues and purples, such as Salvia or large clumps of ornamental grasses, to enhance the cool tones of the bloom. It works beautifully as a small area ground cover, filling in spaces between larger shrubs or perennials, or as a bright inclusion in a rock garden where drainage is naturally excellent.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy
• Good Cut

Noteworthy Characteristics

Coreopsis rosea, sometimes commonly called pink coreopsis or pink threadleaf coreopsis, is primarily native to wet sandy soils along water margins in coastal plain areas from Nova Scotia to Maryland. It is noted for being the only coreopsis with pink flowers. It closely resembles C. Verticillata in appearance and habit, but lacks the latter’s heat and drought tolerance. It is a rhizomatous perennial which typically grows in dense, bushy clumps to 1-2’ tall, featuring whorls of linear, grass-like, light green leaves that lend a fine-textured and airy appearance to the plant.

Tolerances

• Deer
• Dry Soil
• Shallow-Rocky Soil

Potential Problems

This plant generally resists serious insect or disease pressures, which contributes to its overall low maintenance rating. The most significant cultural issue arises from improper watering or soil structure; crown rot is a risk if established in moist, poorly drained heavy clay soils. Furthermore, Coreopsis rosea performs poorly in the intense heat and humidity common in the deep South, often appearing scraggly with weak flowering. Be prepared for its weak stems to sprawl and mat, especially following heavy summer rains, necessitating the late-summer shearing mentioned previously. If allowed to go to seed, it may self-sow aggressively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Tickseed suitable for?

This Coreopsis rosea Tickseed is suitable for gardeners in USDA Zones 3 through 8.

How large does Coreopsis rosea grow?

It typically reaches a height between 1 and 2 feet tall, with a spread ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 feet wide.

What sun exposure does Tickseed need?

This plant requires full sun exposure to produce the most abundant and longest-lasting bloom display.

When does Coreopsis rosea bloom?

You can expect blooms from June all the way through September, featuring distinctive pink rays with cheerful yellow disks.

Conclusion

Coreopsis rosea offers gardeners a unique opportunity to add airy texture and the uncommon beauty of pink flowers to their sunny perennial borders. While generally low maintenance, remembering its requirement for consistently moist, well-drained ground is the key to perennial success with this Tickseed. Before planting, confirm your regional hardiness zone and plan to amend heavy soils to ensure the best performance throughout the summer months.

Companion Planting

When planning your landscape around Coreopsis rosea, look for companions that share its appreciation for full sun and consistent moisture while contrasting its fine texture. Plants that prefer similar conditions include various native asters, especially those that tolerate slightly damp edges, or Siberian Iris, which offers height and complementary blue or purple tones during the summer. For textural contrast without competing for moisture, consider low-growing Sedums or creeping Thyme near the edges of the patch, provided they don’t shade out the base of the Tickseed.

Propagation Tips

Dividing established clumps of Coreopsis rosea is the most common and reliable propagation method. Dig up the entire clump in early spring before new growth hardens off, or in the fall after blooming concludes. Gently tease apart sections, ensuring each division has a healthy root system attached. Replant these divisions immediately into prepared soil, watering well to help them re-establish quickly. While self-seeding occurs naturally, division ensures you retain the characteristics of the original plant and keeps overly aggressive spread manageable.