Coreopsis lanceolata aka Coreopsis

Coreopsis lanceolata is a perennial wildflower in the daisy family. Gardeners call it lanceleaf coreopsis or lance-leaved tickseed. Its native range spans southeastern Canada and the central and eastern United States. It grows in prairies, open glades, fields, and along roads. North Carolina populations may be naturalized rather than native. This plant forms upright clumps and grows fast. It suits meadows, wildflower plots, rock gardens, and flower borders.

Plants often reach 2 feet [0.61 metres] in height. Reported garden heights range from 1–3 feet [0.30–0.91 metres]. RHS gives a lower upper height of 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Clumps spread about 1–2 feet [0.30–0.61 metres]. Most leaves grow near the base of the plant. They are green, narrow, lance-shaped, and often hairy. Smaller leaves grow in pairs along the stems. Some have small side lobes, while others have plain edges. The green stems are smooth, round, and slender.

Yellow flower heads rise above the leaves on long stalks. Each head has a yellow central disc and outer ray flowers. There are often eight rays, each with a notched tip. Flower heads measure about 1–2.5 inches across. Bloom dates vary by place and growing conditions. North Carolina records April to June; Missouri records May to July. The Chicago source also lists bloom in July and August. Small dry fruits, called cypselae, follow the flowers. Birds eat the seeds, while bees and butterflies visit the blooms. The flowers also work well in cut arrangements.

Full sun and soil that drains well suit this plant. It also tolerates some shade, heat, humidity, and dry spells. Sandy, rocky, and poor soils can support good growth. Sources describe suitable moisture as dry to moist. Rich or wet soil can cause stems to flop. Its main USDA range is zones 4–9; Chicago lists 3–8. RHS rates it H5 for UK gardens. Removing faded flowers helps extend bloom and limits new seedlings. Border clumps may need division every two or three years.

Self-sown seedlings can form large patches and become weedy. Cut sprawling plants back to keep their shape. Serious pest and disease problems are uncommon. Poor drainage can lead to crown rot. Slugs and snails may damage plants, and deer tend to avoid them. NC State lists it as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses.