Plant Profile: Coreopsis lanceolata

Coreopsis lanceolata, often referred to as lanceleaf coreopsis, is a wildflower native to North America, typically reaching heights of around 2 feet. It thrives in a variety of habitats, including prairies, glades, fields, and along roadsides. The genus name, Coreopsis, is sometimes colloquially known as tickseed, due to the seed's resemblance to ticks. This plant flourishes in full sunlight and prefers moist, well-drained soil; however, it may become sprawling if planted in overly rich soil. It has a tendency to self-seed aggressively, forming colonies, so it is best suited for areas where this behavior is acceptable. To manage self-seeding and promote further flowering, regular deadheading of faded blooms is recommended. Additionally, dividing the plants every 2 to 3 years can help maintain their vigor, and they can be pruned back significantly if they become too unruly. Numerous cultivars exist, including hybrids with Coreopsis grandiflora.

This species is also known for its resistance to deer damage.

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