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Coreopsis

Coreopsis is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family, Asteraceae.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Coreopsis is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family, Asteraceae. Commonly called tickseed, its species are known for daisy-like flowers, often in yellow or gold, and are used widely in ornamental gardening. The genus includes both annual and perennial species native to the Americas.

Description

Coreopsis species are herbaceous flowering plants with showy composite flower heads. They commonly have yellow, gold, pink, red, or white blooms and are valued for a long flowering season.

Taxonomy and name

The genus belongs to the Asteraceae family. The name Coreopsis is derived from Greek words meaning roughly 'bug-like,' referring to the shape of the seeds, which gives rise to the common name tickseed.

Distribution and habitat

Coreopsis species occur naturally across North, Central, and South America. Many species are native to North America and are adapted to sunny, open, and often dry habitats.

Cultivation

Coreopsis is commonly grown in ornamental borders, beds, and naturalistic plantings. Gardeners value it for drought tolerance, low maintenance needs, and prolonged blooming.

Key facts

  • Coreopsis is a genus in the sunflower family Asteraceae, commonly called tickseed.
  • Species may be annual or perennial, depending on the taxon.
  • Flowers are typically daisy-like with ray florets around a central disk.
  • Many species are native to North America, with others native to Central and South America.
  • Coreopsis is widely cultivated as a garden plant for long bloom periods.
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Canadian context

Coreopsis is grown in Canadian gardens as a hardy ornamental flower, especially in sunny borders and pollinator-friendly plantings.

Frequently asked questions

What is Coreopsis?
Coreopsis is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly called tickseed.
Why is it called tickseed?
The common name refers to the appearance of the seeds, which resemble small ticks or bugs.
Are Coreopsis plants annual or perennial?
Both occur in the genus; some species are annuals and others are perennials.
Where are Coreopsis species native to?
They are native to the Americas, especially North America, but also Central and South America.
What do Coreopsis flowers look like?
They usually have daisy-like flower heads with colorful ray florets around a central disk.
Is Coreopsis important in Canada?
Coreopsis is mainly of horticultural interest in Canada as a garden perennial or annual, especially in sunny, well-drained planting sites.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coreopsis
    Supports: Genus placement in Asteraceae, common names, and general description.
  2. American Meadows — https://www.americanmeadows.com/blogs/perennials/all-about-coreopsis
    Supports: Number of species, native range, and annual/perennial habit.
  3. National Garden Bureau — https://ngb.org/year-of-the-coreopsis/
    Supports: Flower structure, ornamental use, and general genus characteristics.
  4. Longfield Gardens — https://www.longfield-gardens.com/blogs/perennial-plants-all-about/all-about-coreopsis
    Supports: Native range, drought tolerance, and garden use.
  5. The Old Farmer's Almanac — https://www.almanac.com/plant/coreopsis
    Supports: Florida state flower reference.