Coreopsis lanceolata (Lanceleaf Coreopsis) Unity Grown

Coreopsis lanceolata, also called lanceleaf coreopsis or lanceleaf tickseed, is a native perennial wildflower that grows up to 2-3' tall and features daisy-like, yellow blooms on erect stalks from spring through early summer. The common name tickseed does not refer to the plant attracting ticks or other insects and instead refers to the shape of the plant's seeds, which are curled and brown, and bear some resemblance to ticks. Coreopsis lanceolata can be an aggressive spreader, as it spreads via root and self-seeds easily, and because it requires very little in terms of soil moisture or nutrients to the survive. While these features make lanceleaf coreopsis an excellent choice for stubborn, hot, dry gardens, it also means that these flowers can become weedy over time. To promote better aesthetics and to encourage further blooming through the spring and summer and discourage self-seeding, spent flower stalks can be dead-headed as they begin to fade, though this may also discourage birds that feed on tickseed.

Preferring full, blazing sun and medium to dry soils, lanceleaf tickseed requires little else to become established and thriving, making it a great low-maintenance choice for hellstrip areas between sidewalks and roads, rock gardens, and pollinator gardens since its yellow flowers are especially attractive to butterflies. Butterly hosts include the great spangled fritillary (Speyeria cybele) and the hickory hairstreak (Satyrium caryaevorus), which is considered state endangered in Maryland.