whorled tickseed Interesting Notes

The Perennial Plant Association's 1992 Perennial Plant of the Year®

"Coreopsis verticillata ’Moonbeam’ wins accolades from gardeners not only because it is easy to grow but because the interesting, needle-like foliage is covered in pale yellow flowers for much of the summer. It forms an open mound 18” in height and spreads by rhizomes to about 24” wide. It is adaptable to many soil types, with the only requirement being that the site is well drained. Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’ grows well in full sun or light shade, is pest free, and butterflies love it. Pruning after flowering will encourage further blooming. The primrose-yellow, daisy-like flowers look fabulous with a variety of plants including Stokesia laevis, Echinacea purpurea, Bigelowia nuttallii, and Eurybia divaricata." - Mt. Cuba Center

Not very often do you find a straight species that holds its own against well-loved cultivars and selections but Coreopsis verticillata is one of those cases. Growing 2’-3’ high, it is loosely covered with bright lemon yellow flowers and fine green lacy foliage. Stems and flowers are at varying heights and the billowy blooms move and feel light due to their staggered nature. This plant is drought-tolerant and wonderful in informal sunny gardens and along the edge of walkways and roadsides.

Coming from wood edges, pine savannas, and oak savannas, Coreopsis verticillata is native to Maryland to South Carolina to Kentucky and Tennessee. It prefers sun to lightly shaded sites in sandy, well-drained soil. It does well in garden soil but the water-holding capacity of heavy clay soils can lead to crown rot.

Coreopsis species support over 40 different species of insects including some predatory insects which are essential for a garden strong ecosystem.

Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' Growing and Maintenance Tips

Full sun to part shade in average to dry soils that are well drained. An extremely tolerant plant. Does well in poor, rocky soils. Tolerant of humidity, heat, and dry conditions. Spreads by both rhizomes and seeds but is not invasive. Propagate by division in spring or fall. 

Good Substitutions

Coreopsis 'Crème Brûlée'

Coreopsis pubescens 'Sunshine Superman'

Coreopsis 'Sienna Sunset'

Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb'