Plains Coreopsis
coreopsis tinctoria
Also known as: ["Golden Tickseed","Calliopsis"]
Overview
An annual flowering plant native to North America, known for its bright yellow and red daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Coreopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Coreopsis tinctoria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; essential to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead regularly during blooming season; trim lightly every 2–3 months if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an overgrown plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid over-amending with organic matter; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).
Monitor nighttime temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize lightly to avoid excessive foliage growth; stop fertilizing when blooming slows; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; seeds are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (70–75°F or 21–24°C); indirect light; protect from strong winds.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite); can also be propagated in water.
Hormone
Optional but can help speed up rooting; use a mild rooting hormone if desired.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks; plants establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or damaged stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape; cut back after flowering to promote compact growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts; clean up debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when roots fill the container or growth slows; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks; adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or bud drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage or death; frost can kill tender parts.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors; use row covers for garden plants.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Water deeply during heatwaves; provide afternoon shade; mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCoreopsis tinctoria is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCoreopsis tinctoria is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCoreopsis tinctoria is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known significant toxic effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Coreopsis tinctoria grow?
A: It typically grows to 1–3 feet tall.
Q: Does Coreopsis tinctoria require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun conditions.
Q: Is Coreopsis tinctoria deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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