Stiff tickseed (Coreopsis palmata)

Also known as: Wedgeleaf coreopsis

Stiff tickseed (Coreopsis palmata) is popular in ornamental horticulture due to its height of up to 76 cm and its striking yellow flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. This plant not only adds vibrant color to gardens but also attracts butterflies, enhancing the garden's ecological value.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Stiff tickseed

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 91 cm

Spread

60 cm to 90 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Stiff tickseed

Quickly Identify Stiff tickseed

Look for bright yellow, daisy-like flowers with a distinct central disk. The leaves are narrow and positioned in an opposite arrangement. The plant is typically stiff and upright in form.

Scientific Classification of Stiff tickseed

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Calliopsis

Species

Stiff tickseed

Planting and Growing of Stiff tickseed

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Stiff tickseed?

When watering Coreopsis palmata, aim to provide about 500 ml, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. This plant thrives with even moisture, reminiscent of its native prairies. Let some topsoil dry between waterings to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Stiff tickseed? ›

What should I do if my Stiff tickseed is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Stiff tickseed? ›

How to save an overwatered Stiff tickseed? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Stiff tickseed?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Coreopsis palmata flourishes in full sunlight, benefiting from 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily. This ideal light range supports vigorous growth, vibrant flower production, and a robust plant structure, enhancing its ornamental value.

What is the ideal light condition for Coreopsis palmata? ›

What solutions exist to achieve ideal lighting for Coreopsis palmata? ›

What are the benefits of providing ideal lighting to Coreopsis palmata? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Stiff tickseed?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Coreopsis palmata is between 65°F and 75°F. This range supports optimal growth and flowering. Temperatures within this range provide a balanced environment for essential physiological processes and reduce temperature-related stress.

What Soil is Best for Stiff tickseed?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Coreopsis palmata thrives in well-drained soils where water can easily percolate through. This prevents root rot and promotes healthy root development, ensuring robust plant growth. While not overly demanding, Coreopsis palmata benefits from a moderately fertile soil that can supply necessary nutrients. This helps in sustaining vibrant foliage and abundant flowering throughout its growing season. A sandy soil texture offers ideal conditions for Coreopsis palmata by providing both drainage and aeration. It facilitates deep root penetration and enhances drought tolerance, making the plant resilient in its native habitat.

How to Fertilize Stiff tickseed?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Coreopsis palmata, it is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Approximately 1 tablespoon per gallon of water is ideal for liquid fertilizers.

How to Prune Stiff tickseed?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

To keep your Coreopsis palmata flourishing, remove spent blooms regularly. This process, known as deadheading, helps redirect the plant's energy towards producing new flowers instead of seed heads, thereby encouraging abundant blooming. Prune back stems selectively during spring and early summer to maintain a tidy shape and remove any leggy growth. Ensure cuts are made just above a node where new growth is visible to promote a fuller appearance. As the summer fades, cut back the stems to about half their height to tidy the plant and prepare it for winter dormancy. This helps protect it from potential snow damage while maintaining its health for the following season. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Stiff tickseed plant?

Propagate Time: Spring

After the flowering period, collect the seeds from the dried seed heads of Coreopsis palmata. Ensure the seeds are ripe and dry before storage for planting.

Choose mature plants for division. Carefully dig them up and separate the root clumps using a sharp knife or garden fork. Each division should have at least a couple of healthy shoots and roots.

Plant the seeds in well-drained soil or seed tray, and cover them lightly with soil. Maintain moisture until they germinate. Place them in a warm location with indirect sunlight.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Stiff tickseed plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Coreopsis palmata typically needs repotting when the plant has outgrown its current container, harbors overly compacted soil, or shows signs of restricted root growth. Look for roots protruding through drainage holes or circling on the surface as key indicators. Aim for spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing and can recover quickly.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the roots. A terracotta or clay pot is especially beneficial as it provides excellent breathability and helps prevent root rot by allowing excess moisture to evaporate.

Opt for a well-draining sandy soil mix to mimic native environments. Such soil ensures proper aeration and drainage, reducing the risk of overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Adding perlite or coarse sand can enhance drainage capacity, providing an optimal growth medium for Coreopsis palmata.