Planting and Growing the Lobed Tickseed

Also known as early coreopsis, dwarf tickseed, or eared coreopsis, this native is a member of the Aster family of plants. It is botanically known as Coreopsis auriculata.

Lobed Tickseed Description

This native grows four to 24 inches tall in a low dense growth. It has hairy leaves and stems and bright yellow flowers. Blooms are daisy-like and small. Leaves can persist throughout the winter season, blooms last from April to May with some persisting to frost. It is a perennial that blooms the best in full sun conditions, at least three to four hours per day. Less sunlight will result in fewer flowers.

Growing Guide

This native prefers to grow in either full sun or partial shade conditions. Soils should be rich, moist, and either acidic or neutral in pH. It is heat tolerant. Propagate by seed or by root division. Seeds will not need pretreatment prior to sowing and can be sown either in late fall or the next spring. Collect seed about a month after flowers fade. It can be stored in a sealed refrigerator container for up to three years.

Distribution for Lobed Tickseed

It is found in wood edges, thickets and savannahs in Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Uses

Lobed tickseed attracts birds and butterflies, especially songbirds for its seed. The flowers are a favorite in the Southeast United States and they attract the butterflies. It is a nectar source for them.

Maintenance

The lobed tickseed really loves having a good leaf mulch around it. Just mulch it well, let the leaves breakdown into the soil, and add more as the seasons progress for the best growth.

Source:

NPIN: Lobed Tickseed