Coreopsis: Florida's State Wildflower

Coreopsis is a widespread genus native to the New World, with about 80 species found throughout North and South America. It's commonly known as "Tickseed," and is a member of the Aster family (Asteraceae). Here in Florida, we have about a dozen species of coreopsis, including one endemic species found only in peninsular Florida. All of these species are considered to be the Florida State Wildflower:

The Coreopsis is hereby designated and declared the official Florida state wildflower, as species of this genus are found throughout the state and are used extensively in roadside plantings and highway beautification. (Florida Statutes 15.0345, enacted 1991)

Leavenworth's Tickseed (Coreopsis leavenworthii) is among the most common coreopsis species seen in Florida roadside medians and wildflower areas, where the masses of tall slender stems hold bright yellow blooms that make for a cheery, low-maintenance show. This is one of the few coreopsis species to grow well in Southern Florida, where they prefer lots of bright sunshine and well-drained soil. This species is excellent for drought-tolerant plantings in a less formal setting. It is a short-lived perennial and should be allowed to re-seed for continued presence year after year.

Leavenworth's Tickseed (Coreopsis leavenworthii)

Largeflower Tickseed (Coreopsis grandiflora) has been widely cultivated for home garden use, since the big flowers grow on sturdy stems that hold up well to some abuse. Multiple varieties are available, with single and double-flowered blooms in simple yellow or yellow with orange/brown centers. In a garden setting, coreopsis performs best when dead-headed regularly to encourage new blooms. At MOSI Outside, we like to use this species in containers that receive plenty of sunshine.

Largeflower Tickseed (Coreopsis grandiflora)

Other coreopsis species especially well-suited to Florida landscaping include Lanceleaf Tickseed (Coreopsis lanceolata) and Coastalplain Tickseed (Coreopsis gladiata). Florida Tickseed (Coreopsis floridana) is endemic to Florida. This fall-blooming wildflower is found in wetlands and may be a candidate for planting in perpetually moist soils in home gardens settings, such as at the edge of a pond. Most tickseeds are great nectar plants for butterflies, making them an excellent choice for a wildlife garden.

What's In a Name? Like the common name, coreopsis refers to the seeds of this plant, said to resemble ticks or gnats. The Greek for bug or gnat is "koris", while "opsis" means "looks like".