Overview
Coreopsis tinctoria is a bushy annual biennial in the genus Coreopsis, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1 year. Coreopsis tinctoria grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildflower meadow, gravel garden, patio and container plants, prairie planting and wildlife gardens. It is native to N America.
About
Coreopsis tinctoria is a robust annual that grows upright and can reach up to 1 meter tall by the end of the growing season. It features lance-shaped foliage and produces vibrant yellow flowerheads with distinct red centers from summer through early autumn, all held on branching stems.
About the genus
Coreopsis includes both annual and perennial species, characterized by their paired, simple leaves that may be palmate or pinnately divided. They produce elongated flower heads that resemble daisies and are borne on long stalks.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Coreopsis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Coreopsis tinctoria size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1 year
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- N America
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Coreopsis tinctoria
- Cultivation
- Grows best in a fertile, well-drained soil in full sun
- Pruning
- Deadhead to prolong flower display
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Coreopsis tinctoria?
Grows best in a fertile, well-drained soil in full sun.
Where is the best place to plant Coreopsis tinctoria?
Coreopsis tinctoria prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Coreopsis tinctoria need?
Coreopsis tinctoria is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How do I prune Coreopsis tinctoria?
Deadhead to prolong flower display.
How big does Coreopsis tinctoria grow?
Coreopsis tinctoria reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1 year to reach full size.
Is Coreopsis tinctoria hardy in the UK?
Coreopsis tinctoria has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Coreopsis tinctoria?
Propagate by seed.
Is Coreopsis tinctoria good for pollinators?
Yes — Coreopsis tinctoria attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.