Lemonade Coreopsis

coreopsis auriculata

Also known as: ["Earleaf Tickseed","Lemonade Tickseed"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Coreopsis Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial wildflower native to the southeastern United States, known for its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers and compact growth habit.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Coreopsis
Botanical Name: Coreopsis auriculata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Deadhead regularly during flowering; cut back annually in late fall or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure bright light indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid deep shade.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water at the base to avoid foliage; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); hardy in USDA zones 5–9.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop before winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Transplant when rooted.

Best Time: Spring or early summer.

Environment

Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Deadhead by snipping flower stems; cut back by trimming stems to a few inches above ground.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back in late fall or early spring to maintain shape.

Tools

Hand pruners, gloves.

Checklist

Wear gloves; sterilize tools; deadhead regularly; cut back in fall/spring.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until the soil is moist but not waterlogged; ensure water penetrates the root ball; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose for even moisture distribution.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once a week during the growing season; reduce frequency in winter; increase during drought or extreme heat.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or peat moss for organic matter; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or leaf drop.

Cold Stress

Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows; may die back in severe cold.

Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost; move potted plants indoors.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Choose balanced fertilizer; apply at recommended rate; water after fertilizing.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; reduce in late summer.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Coreopsis auriculata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Coreopsis auriculata can result from inadequate water supply, root damage, or disease, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Coreopsis auriculata are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Coreopsis auriculata due to overwatering or fungal infections, causing decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Coreopsis auriculata is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor your cat if they consume large quantities of any plant material, but this species is generally safe.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Coreopsis auriculata is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor your dog if they consume large quantities of any plant material, but this species is generally safe.
Humans
Non-toxic

Coreopsis auriculata is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material is not recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should Coreopsis auriculata be watered?

A: Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Coreopsis auriculata attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Q: Can Coreopsis auriculata be grown in containers?

A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but ensure adequate drainage and regular watering.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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