Plains coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria)

Plains coreopsis

Also known as: Garden tickseed, Dye-flower

Plains coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria) is an annual flowering plant common to Canada, the United States, and China. Plains coreopsis grows along roadsides and agricultural fields. Plains coreopsis is cultivated in gardens and prefers well-drained sandy soils. The blossoms can be made into mahogany dye.

Scientific classification

Species

Plains coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

30 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 4.5 cm

Flower Size

Black

Fruit Color

Yellow, Red, Brown, Orange, Gold

Flower Color

Green, Red, Yellow

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Plains coreopsis

Attributes of Plains coreopsis

Growth Rate

Plains coreopsis's rapid growth during spring and summer leads to an abundance of thin, leafy stems and strikingly colorful, daisy-like flowers. Growth patterns show a swift increase in height, peaking around mid-summer. This fast maturation aligns with the plant's adaptability to prairie-like conditions, thoroughly exploiting its short, active growing season.

Distribution of Plains coreopsis

Distribution Map

Plains coreopsis grows wild in meadows and prairies natively throughout North America. It has spread widely across Europe and Asia and is also found in southeastern Africa.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Moist low ground, roadsides, waste places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Gardens in need of some mass planting but with poor soil will benefit from plains coreopsis. It can thrive in questionable soil quality, and its showy flowers mean that planting it in drifts has huge payoff. Naturalized, meadow, or very informal gardens are also a good setting for this loose and floriferous plant. Cosmos, Geraniums, or Poppies make for striking contrast plantings.

Symbolism

Always cheerful

Interesting Facts

Voted the 2017 Wildflower of the Year by the Kansas Native Plant Society, this prolific bloomer attracts a wide variety of native insects and pollinators. Growing wild along roadways and woodland openings, the plains coreopsis was awarded that distinction for its easy growth habit and its use as a source for making red, yellow and brown dyes.

Name Story

Plains coreopsis: This plant often grows in disturbed areas such as roadsides and cultivated fields. Since the plant is common in Great Plains and Southern states, it is called Plains coreopsis.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Plains coreopsis, including the following common varieties :

Tickseeds 'Jive'

Quickly Identify Plains coreopsis

Vibrant daisy-like blooms with yellow-orange petals and reddish-brown center.

Slender, finely textured foliage providing a delicate backdrop for bold blossoms.

Black achenes less than 1/8 inch (3 mm) in size with a single wing.

Opposite, pinnately compound leaves with bright green, feathery appearance.

Distinct notched petals in daisy-like arrangement with reddish-purple central disks.

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Care Guide for Plains coreopsis

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from North American prairies, plains coreopsis thrives with periodic rainfall and well-draining soil. It tolerates short dry spells and prefers balanced moisture. Weekly watering maintains vitality. As an outdoor plant, plains coreopsis is resilient to varying precipitation, ideal for temperate climate gardens.

Fertilize: To enhance plains coreopsis's blooms and growth, use high phosphorus fertilizers at the start and midseason, every 4-6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilization, which can favor foliage over flowers. Halt fertilization during dormancy, and for beginners, apply at half-strength. Mix fertilizer into moist soil for optimal uptake.

Pruning: To promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms, prune plains coreopsis in early to late spring. Techniques include deadheading and trimming overgrown stems. Use clean, sharp tools to avoid disease. For detailed practices, refer to horticultural guides.

Propagation: Plains coreopsis enhances gardens with its vibrant flowers and easy propagation via division. Gardeners should separate root clumps early, ensuring each new section retains sufficient roots and shoots. Replant promptly in well-draining soil and maintain consistent moisture for effective establishment.

Repotting: Plains coreopsis requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive, ensuring proper aeration and preventing root rot. Adequate drainage is essential for optimal health and growth of the plant.

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