Plains coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria)

Also known as: Garden tickseed, Dye-flower

Plains coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria) is an annual flower native to Canada, the United States, and China, often found along roadsides and in agricultural fields. When cultivated in gardens, it thrives in well-drained soils and has a preference for sandy textures. Additionally, its flowers can be used to produce a mahogany-colored dye.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Plains coreopsis

Lifespan

Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 1 m

Spread

30 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 4.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow Red Brown Orange Gold

Images of Plains coreopsis

Quickly Identify Plains coreopsis

Vibrant daisy-like blooms with yellow-orange petals and reddish-brown center.

Slender, finely textured foliage providing a delicate backdrop for bold blossoms.

Black achenes less than 1/8 inch (3 mm) in size with a single wing.

Opposite, pinnately compound leaves with bright green, feathery appearance.

Distinct notched petals in daisy-like arrangement with reddish-purple central disks.

Scientific Classification of Plains coreopsis

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Family

Daisy

Genus

Calliopsis

Species

Plains coreopsis

Planting and Growing of Plains coreopsis

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

70-80℉

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 Plains coreopsis?

For Coreopsis tinctoria, ensure the soil is moistened thoroughly but not waterlogged. Water around 250 ml at a time, ensuring excess water is allowed to drain away. The aim is to moisten the top 2-3 inches of soil, following the 'soak and dry' principle to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Plains coreopsis? ›

What should I do if my Plains coreopsis is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Plains coreopsis? ›

How to save an overwatered Plains coreopsis? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Plains coreopsis?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Coreopsis tinctoria thrives in full sun, requiring 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Ideal light ensures robust growth and a vibrant display of flowers, enhancing both plant health and lifespan.

What is the ideal light condition for Coreopsis tinctoria? ›

How can you achieve the ideal light conditions for Coreopsis tinctoria? ›

What benefits does the plant have under ideal light conditions? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Plains coreopsis?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 80℉

Coreopsis tinctoria thrives best when grown in temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F. This range offers optimal conditions for growth and flowering, allowing the plant to perform its biological functions efficiently. Maintaining a steady temperature within this range ensures that the plant remains healthy and vibrant.

What Soil is Best for Plains coreopsis?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy soil, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Coreopsis tinctoria thrives in well-drained soils, preventing root rot and ensuring proper nutrient uptake, contributing to its vibrant blooming. This plant benefits from soils with moderate nutrient levels, which encourages balanced growth without excessive foliage at the expense of flowers. Preferring warmer soil temperatures, this plant grows more robustly, with better seed germination and stronger root development, leading to a lush display. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Plains coreopsis?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Coreopsis tinctoria thrives on modest fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. For liquid fertilizers, dilute to half the recommended strength and apply approximately 100 mL per plant, ensuring you don’t overfeed and stress the plant. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Plains coreopsis?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Coreopsis tinctoria benefits greatly from deadheading, the process of removing faded or spent flowers. To do this, use sharp scissors or pruning shears to snip the flower stems just above the next bud or leaf node. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms and keeps it looking fresh throughout the season. To maintain a tidy and compact shape, trim back any overly long or scraggly stems. Cut back to a healthy leaf node or the base of a robust stem. This not only keeps the plant from becoming leggy but also fosters a bushier growth habit. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Plains coreopsis plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late winter

To begin with seed propagation, prepare a fine seed bed using a well-drained mix of soil that is slightly damp. Ensure the soil is free of stones and compact it lightly before sowing the seeds evenly across the surface.

For cutting propagation, select healthy, disease-free shoots and cut them to about 4-6 inches. Remove any leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the end into rooting hormone powder to encourage root development.

After planting seeds or inserting cuttings into the prepared medium, gently water and place them in a bright spot with indirect sunlight. Keep the medium moist and monitor for signs of growth, adjusting care as needed.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Plains coreopsis plant?

Repotting frequency: Annual or biennial

Coreopsis tinctoria shows signs it needs repotting when roots emerge from drainage holes, or water sits on the soil surface after watering — both are signals that the plant is root-bound and needs more space.

Select a pot that is 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to allow growth while preventing root rot. The pot should have adequate drainage holes to ensure excess water is easily expelled.

Opt for sandy loam that improves water drainage and soil aeration, benefiting the roots. This mix prevents water retention, mimics natural conditions, and fosters robust plant growth.