Coreopsis

Coreopsis, commonly known as tickseed, is a genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family. The genus includes about 70 species of annuals and perennials native to the Americas, from the United States to Argentina. Coreopsis is valued in gardens for its bright, daisy-like flower heads and long flowering period.

Description: Most coreopsis species are herbaceous, with clumps of upright stems and sometimes deeply divided or narrow leaves. The inflorescences are composite heads with ray florets surrounding a central disk. Flower colors range from bright yellow and gold to orange, pink, and red in many cultivars. Blooms appear from midsummer into autumn and attract pollinators.

Habitat and distribution: Native to a broad range of habitats across North, Central, and South America. They have been widely cultivated and are now naturalized in many temperate regions.

Cultivation: Coreopsis prefers full sun and well-drained soil; many species tolerate drought and poor soils. Some cultivars are more tolerant of moisture. Propagation is by seed or division; many forms are long-blooming, and deadheading can extend flowering. Hardiness ranges vary by species, but several are reliable in a wide range of climates.

Notable species: Coreopsis grandiflora (large-flowered tickseed), Coreopsis verticillata (thread-leaved tickseed), Coreopsis tinctoria (golden coreopsis). Garden cultivars include 'Moonbeam' (white to pale-yellow, thread-leaved) and other seed-raised or hybrid forms.

Uses: Primarily ornamental, used in borders, rock gardens, wildflower meadows, and container plantings; they are also popular in cut flower arrangements and attract bees and butterflies.

Pests and diseases: Generally resistant to many pests; maintain good air circulation to reduce powdery mildew in humid climates.