Lanceleaf Coreopsis
Butterflies and other pollinators are drawn to the flower.
By LYNN ARTZ, SANDY TEDDER and DAVID RODDENBERRY
Lanceleaf coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) is a spring-blooming wildflower with sunny yellow flowers. The tips of its petals are notched. A short-lived perennial, lanceleaf coreopsis readily reseeds. It attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Birds eat the seeds. Easy to grow, lanceleaf coreopsis typically reaches 1-2 feet tall in full to part sun and moist to dry, sandy soil. This wildflower is a terrific addition to butterfly gardens and wildflower meadows. Insects, diseases, and deer do it little harm. As its seeds resemble ticks, lanceleaf tickseed is another common name. Florida’s state wildflower is Coreopsis. The state has a dozen native Coreopsis species. Lanceleaf coreopsis grows in the wild in the north half of Florida. Lanceleaf coreopsis is blooming now in the northwest garden and meadow at Sopchoppy Depot Park.