Lanceleaf Coreopsis
coreopsis lanceolata
Also known as: ["Tickseed","Lanceleaf Tickseed"]
Overview
A perennial wildflower native to North America, known for its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers and lance-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Coreopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Coreopsis lanceolata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open sunny area, or container with adequate drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soil but thrives with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead flowers throughout the growing season; major pruning once a year in late fall or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at a time.
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 scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyEasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water at the base, avoid wetting foliage; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; prioritize deep watering over frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate heat but may require more water; avoid prolonged exposure to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when blooms fade; use a low-nitrogen formula to avoid excessive foliage growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown directly in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants may flower in the first year if started early.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; shear for overall shape if needed.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape; cut back in late fall or early spring to rejuvenate.
Tools
Hand pruners, bypass shears, clean, sharp scissors.
Checklist
Clean tools before use; prune dead or damaged stems first; make clean cuts to avoid tearing.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose a clean pot; prepare new soil mix; water plant a day before repotting; handle roots carefully.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; avoid overhead watering; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is moist but not waterlogged; ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage root growth; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter or drought; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds if soil is heavy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold; leaf burn or browning in excessive sun.
Cold Stress
Stems and leaves may become brittle; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 32°F (0°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; cover with frost cloth during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; soil dries out rapidly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade if possible; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for dilution rates; water before fertilizing; apply evenly around the base; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCoreopsis lanceolata is not known to be toxic to cats. It is generally considered safe for cats to ingest in small amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCoreopsis lanceolata is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is generally considered safe for dogs to ingest in small amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCoreopsis lanceolata is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Coreopsis lanceolata?
A: Propagate by seed in early spring or by division in early spring or fall.
Q: Does Coreopsis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Coreopsis?
A: Full sun and well-drained soil; it is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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