Coreopsis

Coreopsis spp

Coreopsis is a genus of flowering plants that are native to North America, and they can be an excellent addition to an Arizona pollinator garden. These plants produce yellow, orange, or red blooms that are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. They are also drought-tolerant and can survive the hot, dry climate of Arizona.

In addition to their ornamental value, Coreopsis plants can help support local ecosystems by providing habitat and food for pollinators. They are also low-maintenance and easy to grow, making them a great choice for gardeners who want to create a vibrant and sustainable pollinator garden.

Overall, Coreopsis is a versatile and valuable plant that can enhance the beauty and biodiversity of an Arizona pollinator garden. There are several species of Coreopsis that are suitable for low desert gardens, including:

  • Coreopsis tinctoria (Plains coreopsis or Golden Tickseed): This species is native to the Great Plains but is well adapted to the low desert. It has yellow and maroon flowers, grows to 2′ or more and blooms from June through September. Needs well drained soil.
  • Coreopsis lanceolata (Lanceleaf Tickseed): This species is native to the eastern United States but has naturalized in the low desert. It has bright yellow flowers and blooms from late spring to early summer. Tolerant of all but the hottest summer heat. Partial shade to full sun, but no intense western exposure. Grows to 2′ tall and can persist in the low desert for 2-4 years.
  • Coreopsis bigelovii (Desert Coreopsis) is an evergreen perennial that attracts butterflies. Place in full sun with moderate water; blooms in spring and summer. Hardy to 0 F and native to California.

Family: Asteraceae
Sun: Full
Watering: Water weekly
Growth Rate: Fast
Soil: Prefers well-draining soil
Temperature: Heat tolerant
Pruning:
Disease and Pests:
Uses: Larval host for the Silvery Checkerspot butterfly. Attracts butterflies and bees.
Notes: 

Photo by ftsautter

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