Florida State Wildflower- Coreopsis

Coreopsis:

Coreopsis is commonly called Tickseed and is approved perennial plant for the year 1992. This is the wildflower of Florida. These vibrant flowers that are long stemmed are usually yellow in color with maroon centers and a toothed tip. This flower is chiefly native to North America.

These yellow flowers are principally daisy-like, with 2 circles of bracts around flower heads; they mostly grow in summer season. Well-drained soil is a key to their successful culture and they need full sunlight or sometimes a light shade is also enough. The rate of growth may be moderate to fast.

Bare root plants are best planted in spring. Potted plants can be planted anytime from late spring until a month before a hard killing frost. They propagate either by division or vegetative cuttings. They grow to a height of about one to three feet. Their seeds take fifteen to thirty for germination. They typically grow on ditches, low-lying areas. The blooming period is between the months may through august

The unique quality of these wild flowers is that they have a fine textured foliage, longer blooming period, ease of culture and minimal maintenance. Coreopsis is sunny flowers with border workhorses. They are great additions to any garden design, blooming all the summer. They fall prey to snails, slugs and fungal diseases, but generally problem free and very easy and rewarding to grow.

Coreopsis can also be used as fresh cut flowers, especially those with long stems.

At the end of the flowering season, allow seeds to remain for the birds to enjoy. Not many plants offer season-long beauty, both indoors and outdoors, and also provide food for our feathered ones. Coreopsis is a highly valued perennial for many garden settings. Plant one of my favorites or select one of your own.

They are for the most part used as a specimen in hanging baskets, in borders, or massed. Its fine texture contrasts effectively with the bold foliages of many other perennials.

Uses: Excellent for wild gardens, containers, and in garden beds, these flowers are also popular for cutting. The smaller types of coreopsis look great in hanging baskets and as edging plants.