Plains Coreopsis, or "Calliopsis", is an annual wildflower renowned for its striking, daisy-like blooms with bright yellow petals and dark red centers! These flowers typically grow on slender, branching stems that can reach heights of 1 to 4 feet. Blooming from late spring to fall, Plains Coreopsis thrives in a variety of soil types and conditions, making it a popular choice for wildflower gardens, meadows, and roadside plantings. Plains Coreopsis is also the state wildflower of Mississippi, chosen for its bright, cheerful appearance and its representation of the state's natural beauty. In history, Native American tribes, such as the Zuni, used Plains Coreopsis to make a natural dye for coloring fabrics and crafts in shades of yellow, orange, and red. As a native wildflower, it provides essential habitat and food sources for a variety of pollinators, contributing to the health and diversity of the environment. Also Known As: Plains Coreopsis, Golden Tickseed, Calliopsis, Garden Tickseed, Plains Tickseed, Goldenwave, Dye Flower, Painted Daisy, Tall Tickseed, Indian Tickseed. Plant Name: Coreopsis, Plains Latin Name: Coreopsis tinctoria Days to Germinate: 7-14 Days to Bloom: 70 Plant Height: 1 - 3 Feet Spread: 12 - 18 inches Bloom Diameter: 1 - 2 Inches Growth Habit: Clumping USDA Zones: 3-11 Lifespan: Annual Brand: TomorrowSeeds Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Shade Pollination: Heirloom, Open-Pollinated GMO: No Fungicide-Treated Seeds*: No Seeds Packed For**: 2026 *Fungicide-treated seeds protect the seedlings from diseases until they are up and growing. Do not eat treated seeds. **Seeds are freshly packed for the growing season of the year listed. Seeds are still viable beyond pack date. Store in a cool and dry location such as the refrigerator or basement to best preserve germination rates. Planting Instructions: Soil Preparation: Choose an area with heavy, well-draining soil that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Remove weeds, large rocks, and litter from the planting area. Leave small weeds and dead grass, they will enrich the soil when turned under. Spade or till the soil 6-8 inches deep. Loosening the soil will help the plant establish strong roots. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in some sand or compost to improve drainage. Optionally, form rows of soil beds 4-6 inches high and at least 2 feet apart. This formation of ridges will help with drainage, ensure good airflow, and make harvesting for cut flowers easier. Lay down 1/2"-3/4" peat moss, sawdust, or potting soil, the soil surface. This layer is beneficial for flower seeds because it can the improve the germination environment and prevent soil crusting. Planting: Sow Plains Coreopsis after all danger of frost has passed in Spring and the soil warms to at least 55F. In mild climates, you can plant seeds in late fall to overwinter in the soil. The seeds will germinate naturally in early spring. To plant, make holes 1/8 inch deep and spaced 6-12 inches apart down the rows of raised beds. Plant 2-3 seeds per hole, then cover thinly with soil. In small plots, flower seeds may be scattered and gently watered in. Once seedlings emerge, plants can be separated and spaced 6-12 inches apart to allow room for mature plants to spread and prevent overcrowding. Water after planting. Planting Depth: 1/8 inch Within-Row Spacing: 6-12 inches Between-Row Spacing: 2-3 feet Care During the Season: Once established, Plains Coreopsis are hardy, drought-tolerant plants require minimal maintenance. Water deeply during prolonged dry spells. Fertilization is usually not needed. Deadhead spent flowers by trimming them back to the next flower bud or leaf node. This redirects the plant’s energy into producing more flowers instead of seeds.
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