Do you know what Florida’s official state wildflower is? It’s a flower named the coreopsis (Coreopsis leavenworthii). The coreopsis, also known as the “Tickseed” or the “Golden Tickseed,” is a wildflower native to Florida. This vibrant perennial represents the sunny disposition of the Sunshine State.
Credit: Edward F. Gilman, UF/IFAS
Origins and Growing Conditions
Coreopsis has been a part of Florida’s landscape for centuries and can thrive in ecosystems from coastal prairies to upland sandhills. In nature, coreopsis can be found in a range of habitats from prairies, meadows, and along roadsides. Coreopsis is cold hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 8a to 11 and grows best in well-drained soils and full sun. This cheerful flower will bring a pop of color to your landscape whether it is used as a border, ground cover, or planted in containers. Coreopsis typically grows between 12 to 24 inches in height and produces bright, daisy-like flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. Once this hardy perennial is established, it is drought tolerant, so it will save you on maintenance and water. You can sometimes get seeds from your local garden center or from the Florida Wildflower Growers Cooperative (https://floridawildflowers.com). Sow seeds anytime from October to January.
Credit: Edward F. Gilman, UF/IFAS
Why Plant Native Species?
Native plants like coreopsis require minimal maintenance once established. Native plants also support local wildlife by providing essential food sources and habitat. The bright blooms of coreopsis are particularly appealing to pollinators like butterflies and bees. The plant’s open, daisy-like flowers make it easy for these beneficial insects to access nectar. Among the butterflies that visit coreopsis are the Painted Lady and the Monarch, which help in pollination and contribute to the health of local ecosystems.
Credit: Edward F. Gilman, UF/IFAS
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