Coreopsis (Coreopsis species), commonly known as tickseed, brings a cheerful splash of golden sunshine to any native garden landscape. These hardy perennials offer an exceptional combination of long-lasting blooms and carefree maintenance that appeals to both beginning and experienced gardeners. Drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, coreopsis attracts a variety of pollinators with its bright daisy-like flowers while thriving in challenging conditions. Whether planted in meadow gardens, mixed borders, or container displays, these versatile native plants deliver reliable color from early summer through fall—making them an indispensable addition to sustainable, low-maintenance landscapes.
What is Lanceleaf Coreopsis?
Coreopsis lanceolata, commonly known as Lanceleaf Coreopsis or Lanceleaf Tickseed, is a cheerful perennial wildflower native to the eastern and central United States. It belongs to the Asteraceae (Sunflower) family and features bright golden-yellow daisy-like flowers with notched petals and dark brown to purple centers. Each flower is held on a slender stem above a basal rosette of narrow, lance-shaped leaves (hence the name “lanceolata”).
The plant typically grows 12-20 inches tall with a spread of 12-18 inches. It forms clumps that gradually increase in size over time and blooms profusely from May through July, with possible reblooming. C. lanceolata often reseeds here and there in a garden and produces many seeds that can be easily collected and shared. Coreopsis lanceolata is known for its drought tolerance, low maintenance requirements, and wildlife benefits.
Ecological Benefits
Lanceleaf Coreopsis provides significant ecological value in both garden and natural settings:
Pollinator Support
The bright yellow flowers attract numerous pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects
Wildlife Value
Serves as a nectar source for adult butterflies and bees
Larval Host
Functions as a host plant for some Lepidoptera species
Bird Benefits
Seed heads provide food for songbirds.
Biodiversity
Contributes to overall ecosystem health and plant diversity in natural areas
Soil Stability
Fibrous root system helps prevent erosion, especially on slopes or in meadow settings
Adaptation
Well-adapted to local conditions in its native range, requiring fewer resources than non-native ornamentals
Preferred Conditions
Lanceleaf Coreopsis thrives under the following conditions:
Sun Exposure
Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight daily); can tolerate light shade, but with reduced flowering
Soil Type
Adaptable to most soil types, but prefers well-drained soil.
Moisture
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-9.
Temperature
Heat tolerant; survives cold winters with proper drainage.
Competition
Performs best with minimal competition from aggressive plants.
Planting Guidelines
For successful establishment of Lanceleaf Coreopsis:
When to Plant
Can be planted year-round, though summer planting is always stressful
Spacing
Place plants 12-18 inches apart
Depth
Plant at the same depth as the container soil level
Site Selection
Choose a location with full sun and good drainage
Companion Plants
Pairs well with other native wildflowers like Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia), Blanketflower (Gaillardia), and Purple Coneflower (Echinacea)
Garden Uses
Suitable for wildflower gardens, meadow plantings, border gardens, butterfly gardens, cottage gardens, cut flower gardens, highway plantings, rock gardens, and erosion control on slopes
Container Growing
Can be grown in containers with adequate drainage
Maintenance
Lanceleaf Coreopsis is generally low-maintenance:
Watering
Water regularly until established; afterward, it needs supplemental water only during extended droughts
Fertilization
Minimal fertilizer needs; excessive fertilizer can reduce flowering and cause leggy growth
Pruning
Cut back by one-third in midsummer if plants become leggy; cut back to basal growth in late fall or early spring
Division
Divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigor and prevent center die-out
Winter Care
Leave some stems standing for winter interest and wildlife habitat; clean up in early spring
Pest Management
Generally pest-resistant; occasionally susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions
Propagation Methods
Lanceleaf Coreopsis can be propagated through several methods:
Seed
Easily grown from seed; can be direct-sown in fall, winter, or spring
Division
Divide established clumps in early spring or fall
Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken in early summer
Self-seeding
Will self-seed readily in the garden; seedlings can be transplanted or thinned
Collecting Seeds
To collect Lanceleaf Coreopsis seeds:
Timing
Allow flowers to fully mature and dry on the plant (usually 4-6 weeks after flowering)
Collection Method
Cut or pull off seed heads when they turn brown and feel dry to the touch
Processing
Place seed heads in a paper bag in a warm, dry location for 1-2 weeks to complete drying
Cleaning
Seeds will spill and/or can be teased out of the bowl-like seed head.
Storage
Store clean, dry seeds in a cool, dry place in paper envelopes or airtight containers
Viability
Seeds remain viable for 2-3 years when stored properly
Germination Requirements
Most seeds will germinate without special treatment; cold stratification can improve germination rates
