How to identify Greater Tickseed (Coreopsis major)

How to identify Greater Tickseed (Coreopsis major)

Greater Tickseed, also known as Whorled Leaf Coreopsis, Whorled Coreopsis, Wood Tickseed

Greater Tickseed exhibits radiant yellow to golden flowers with a composite arrangement, typical of the Asteraceae family. Each bloom features a central disk floret encircled by petal-like ray florets, imparting a daisy-like appearance. The plant stands upright, reaching heights of 1.5 to 3 feet (45 to 90 cm) and spreads to about 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) wide. Its slender stems bear narrow, lanceolate leaves that may extend up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) long. Greater Tickseed's flowers emanate a bright charm throughout its blooming season.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify Greater Tickseed

Large, daisy-like flowers with radiant yellow rays, 2 inches (5 cm) wide.

Narrow lanceolate leaves, up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) long.

Dark brown to black oblong fruit, 2-3 mm in length.

Opposite and trifoliate leaves, with smooth or slightly wavy edges.

Upright plant, 1.5 to 3 feet (45 to 90 cm) tall, spreading 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) wide.

Detailed Traits of Greater Tickseed

Leaf Features

The leaves of greater Tickseed are opposite and trifoliate, with three leaflets per leaf. The lower mid-stem leaves are sessile and appear in whorls of six due to their paired arrangement along the stems. Smaller upper leaves are entire. Leaf edges are smooth or slightly wavy. The leaves are stalkless and the stem, along with the leaves, are covered in fine hairs. Leaves range in texture from soft to slightly rough with a noticeable vein pattern.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Greater Tickseed's flowers are large, daisy-like, with bright yellow rays measuring about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. They feature seven or more untuothed petals that are pointed at the tips, rarely notched, and surround a yellow center disk occasionally tinged with red. The flowers bloom in loose clusters from late spring to late summer on erect, branching stems that typically reach 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall. Outer bracts are narrow. Blooming period is from May to July.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of greater Tickseed are dark brown to black in color, possessing a glossy sheen that reflects light. They are oblong in shape, creating a streamlined profile from end to end. The fruit display their characteristic color and form from July to October, providing a consistent identification feature throughout the later months of the year. Each fruit measures approximately 2-3 mm in length, catering to a detailed observation. The texture of the seed coat is smooth, enhancing the reflective quality of the seeds.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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