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Whorled coreopsis

Coreopsis verticillata

Common names:
whorled coreopsis, threadleaf coreopsis, pot-of-gold, thread leaf coreopsis

Content Detail

Whorled coreopsis produces a cloud of yellow, daisy-like flowers on top of thread-shaped leaves. The plant will bloom for most of the summer. If the plant is deadheaded, it may get a new flush of bloom in September. It is more tolerant of dry soils than other coreopsis. If this perennial is planted in relatively loose soil, the plant will spread to form a large clump. The clumps are bright spots in a dry perennial border or containers.

  • Family (English) Aster (Composite)
  • Family (botanic) Asteraceae (Compositae)
  • Tree or plant type Perennial
  • Native locale North America
  • Size range Medium plant (12-24 inches), Large plant (more than 24 inches)
  • Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily), Partial sun / shade (4-6 hrs light daily)
  • Hardiness zones Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago), Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9
  • Soil preference Dry soil
  • Tolerances Dry sites, Occasional drought
  • Season of interest early summer, midsummer, late summer, early fall
  • Flower color and fragrance Yellow
  • Shape or form Upright
  • Growth rate Fast, Moderate

Size: 

Whorled coreopsis is 1 1/2 to 3 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide. The clumps can get wider over time.

Native geographic location and habitat: 

This plant is native to the Eastern United States.

Attracts birds or pollinators: 

This perennial attracts butterflies and other pollinators.

Leaf description: 

The opposite, thread-like leaves are 2 to 3 inches long and divided in three parts, creating a very fine-textured plant.

Flower description: 

The yellow flowers are 1 to 2 inches wide and held on their stems singly.

Fruit description: 

The fruit has an inverted bell-shape with many seeds at the top. The seeds supposedly look like ticks, thus the common name.

Plant care: 

Plant whorled coreopsis in a well-drained, sunny location. For heavier rebloom in September, shear old flower heads off in August. Divide in spring or autumn every 2 to 3 years, or as needed. This species self-sows. To avoid reseeding, cut the remaining flower heads off at the end of the season. In dry sandy soils, this plant will spread quickly.

List of pests, diseases, and tolerances: 

This plant has no serious problems. If grown in moist, poorly drained soils, the plant may get crown rot, powdery mildew, or fungal spots. If the soil is too rich or moist, the clumps may sprawl open. It is deer resistant and tolerates drought, heat, and humidity.

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