Tickseed
Coreopsis
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The name “coreopsis” stems from the Greek koris, for “bedbug,” and opis, meaning “resembling,” because the seeds look like little bedbugs. The common name is tickseed, which comes from the seeds’ resemblance to ticks.
Coreopsis varieties produce daisylike yellow, red, orange, pink, and violet flowers that bloom from summer to fall. Even as other summer flowers are fading in the fall, coreopsis is often still going strong. Countless small blooms sit atop thin, branching stems, making coreopsis suitable for planting in a number of areas. Not only do bees and butterflies love its nectar, but also small birds such as goldfinches, love its seeds.
This low-maintenance plant makes few demands. It tolerates heat, humidity, and drought, and when cut, adds cheer to a bouquet. Plant in masses for striking visual effect. It is well suited to beds, borders, and containers.
It’s often planted as a perennial which spread with rhizomatous roots. There are annual types, too, that tend to be short-lived, and self-sow. The annual varieties are often included in wildflower seed mixes. And there are hybrids that put energy into making colorful blooms (but set few seeds).
Coreopsis varieties produce daisylike yellow, red, orange, pink, and violet flowers that bloom from summer to fall. Even as other summer flowers are fading in the fall, coreopsis is often still going strong. Countless small blooms sit atop thin, branching stems, making coreopsis suitable for planting in a number of areas. Not only do bees and butterflies love its nectar, but also small birds such as goldfinches, love its seeds.
This low-maintenance plant makes few demands. It tolerates heat, humidity, and drought, and when cut, adds cheer to a bouquet. Plant in masses for striking visual effect. It is well suited to beds, borders, and containers.
It’s often planted as a perennial which spread with rhizomatous roots. There are annual types, too, that tend to be short-lived, and self-sow. The annual varieties are often included in wildflower seed mixes. And there are hybrids that put energy into making colorful blooms (but set few seeds).