Large-flowered Tickseed
coreopsis major
Also known as: ["Large-flowered Tickseed","Giant Tickseed"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant known for its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers and slender, linear leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Coreopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Coreopsis major |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- 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 to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead regularly during blooming season; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; heavy pruning may be needed for overgrown or woody plants.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure proper air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
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 until runoff; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil is loose and airy; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but may struggle in prolonged heat or cold.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering and light exposure accordingly; protect from sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after pruning to encourage new growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when blooms fade.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks; mature plant in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; 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 stems just 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 in late winter to promote vigorous spring growth.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dry weather; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; ensure water penetrates 6–8 inches deep; allow excess to drain away; water early morning or late evening.
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 moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat; leaf discoloration or dieback in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage or dieback; prolonged cold can lead to plant death.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted plants indoors; use frost cloth for protection in mild freezes.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf burn, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use 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 major is not known to be toxic to cats. It is generally safe for feline ingestion in small amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCoreopsis major is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCoreopsis major is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Coreopsis major be watered?
A: Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Coreopsis major attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Coreopsis major be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but ensure adequate drainage and sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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