Coreopsis rosea
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Coreopsis rosea

Pink Tickseed · Pink Coreopsis · Rose Coreopsis · Tickseed

Tier 1 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: full_sun
Water every
7 days
Temperature
5–32 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 4–7
Click count
38
Observations
8

Description

Source: leafsnap

Coreopsis rosea, commonly known as pink tickseed, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Native to the southeastern United States, it thrives in open woodlands, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant typically reaches up to 2 feet in height and 1-2 feet in width, displaying a clumping growth habit. The leaves of Coreopsis rosea are lance-shaped and bright green, creating a pleasing contrast with its delicate pink flowers. These flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and persist through the fall, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Pink tickseed prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade but can tolerate drought conditions once established. It is easy to propagate from seed or by dividing established plants. Coreopsis rosea serves various purposes, including its use as an ornamental plant in gardens or naturalized areas due to its attractive foliage and long-lasting blooms. Additionally, it has medicinal properties, containing compounds known to have anti-inflammatory effects. Overall, Coreopsis rosea is an appealing perennial that adds color and interest to any landscape while also offering ecological benefits for pollinators.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

Pink tickseed thrives in environments with consistent moisture, similar to its native moist meadows. To keep the soil evenly moist, water the plant weekly without causing waterlogging, especially during dry spells. As an herbaceous perennial, it benefits from natural rainfall when grown outdoors.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
FAQ
How should I water my Pink tickseed plant in the best way?

To properly care for the Pink tickseed plant, it's best to use filtered water at room temperature or slightly warmer. Tap water may have harmful particles that can negatively affect the plant's health. Since the Pink tickseed thrives in a warm environment, using cold water can shock its system. Avoid watering from above, as it can create issues with the foliage. Instead, apply filtered room temperature water directly to the soil until it is completely soaked. This helps moisten the roots and allows them to spread and gather nutrients effectively.

What should I do if I give my Pink tickseed plant too much water or too little water?

Overwatering is a common problem that can harm your Pink tickseed plant. It causes the stems and leaves to wilt and turn yellow. Over time, overwatering can also lead to diseases like root rot, mold, and mildew, which can be fatal for the plant. Underwatering is less likely to occur since this plant can tolerate drought, but it can still happen. When underwatering occurs, the leaves of the plant become brittle and brown. It is important to recognize the signs of overwatering early and take action to fix it. Some diseases caused by overwatering, such as root rot, may not be fixable if not addressed promptly. Reduce watering if you notice early signs of overwatering and check the soil's drainage. If the soil drains poorly, replace it with a loose, well-draining potting mix. On the other hand, if signs of underwatering are present, increase watering until the signs disappear.

How often do I need to water my Pink tickseed?

If your Pink tickseed plant is in a pot, the best way to check if it needs water is by sticking your finger into the soil. If the top two to three inches of soil are dry, it needs water. If you have your Pink tickseed planted outdoors, you can use the same method to test the soil. When the top few inches of soil are dry, it's time to water. In spring and early fall, you'll usually need to water once a week using this method. In very hot weather, you may need to water twice a week or more. It's good to know that mature Pink tickseed plants that are well-established can handle drought well.

How much water does my Pink tickseed plant need?

To water your Pink tickseed effectively, make sure the first two to three inches of soil are dry. Give it a good, thorough watering, enough to completely soak the soil. The water should be enough to make excess water flow through the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. If you don't see this excess water draining, you may have not watered it enough. However, be cautious not to let water accumulate in the soil, as this can harm the plant. Poor drainage in the soil is also harmful to the plant, so make sure the pot has good drainage. If the plant is outside, about 1 inch of rainfall per week should be enough.

How do I water my Pink tickseed as it grows?

The water needs of Pink tickseed vary depending on its growth stages. When it is in the early years or has been recently transplanted, it requires more water than usual. During these stages, it focuses on developing new roots to support future growth, which benefit from increased moisture. As the plant matures, it will require less water. Additionally, during the bloom period, when flowers are developing, it may need more water due to increased moisture usage.

☀️ Light Full sun

Pink tickseed grows best with abundant sunlight; full sun for most of the day promotes healthy development. It can also tolerate moderately sunlit locations. Native to sunny habitats, insufficient light can stunt growth or cause foliage discoloration, while too much light may lead to leaf scorch.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
Should I make sure Pink tickseed doesn't get too much sun?

Certain perennial plants require ample sunlight to reach their maximum bloom. However, in warmer climates, some of these plants actually benefit from less sun. For instance, individuals residing in hotter regions might find it beneficial to shade their flowering perennials during the intense afternoon sun, especially during summer months. Although many perennial flowering plants prefer partial shade in the hottest climates, there are exceptions. Take the Giant Coreopsis, for example, as it is not bothered by excessive sun exposure. These plants can flourish even when placed in the full sun during scorching weather.

What kind of sunlight does Pink tickseed need?

Pink tickseed requires full sun daily, with a minimum of six hours of sunlight to maintain healthy leaves, roots, and blooms. While many perennials also need six hours of sunlight, plants like the Orange Daylily or Giant Coreopsis can survive with only three hours of sunlight each day. However, they are not able to flourish as they would in sunnier conditions.

Can the sun harm Pink tickseed? How can I shield Pink tickseed from sun and heat damage?

In warm climates, some Perennial Flowering Plants may struggle with excessive heat and suffer from sun damage. They can wilt, dry out, or even experience growth problems if they are consistently exposed to the intense afternoon sun. However, not all plants require protection from the light afternoon sun. For those that are harmed by intense afternoon exposure, it is recommended to provide them with some shade in warmer climates. Gardeners can achieve this by planting these plants in areas that do not receive direct heat during the afternoon, such as under trees or behind bushes.

What will happen if Pink tickseed does not get enough sunlight?

If your Pink tickseed isn't receiving sufficient sunlight, you'll observe signs of its unmet needs. Generally, these plants won't produce as many blooms compared to those that receive full sun exposure. Some plants may develop dry spots on their leaves, but they can still bloom under inadequate sunlight. However, the flowers that do bloom will likely be smaller and less substantial.

Does Pink tickseed require different amounts of sunlight at different stages of growth?

Pink tickseed is a great flower for gardens, and it blooms best with a minimum of six hours of sunlight each day. It's beneficial to partially shade the flowers during the hottest parts of the day to help them stay fresh longer. For young Pink tickseed plants, it's important to provide plenty of sunlight without subjecting them to intense heat in the afternoon. Fully mature plants thrive when given ample sunlight to support their growth.

🌡️ Temperature 5–32.2°C

Pink tickseed is native to temperate regions. Its preferred temperature range is 41 to 89.6°F (5 to 32℃). Adjust your cultivation methods to take seasonal temperature fluctuations into account to ensure optimal growth.

Ideal temperature: 5–32.2°C
FAQ
What temperature is best for Pink tickseed?

Pink tickseed thrives in cooler weather and has an optimal temperature range for growth. To maintain its health, it is best to keep it between 65~75℉(18~25℃). While Pink tickseed can tolerate higher and lower temperatures, it is recommended to keep the growing area within a few degrees of 65~75℉(18~25℃) whenever possible. Deviation from this temperature range does not necessarily hinder growth, as Pink tickseed can tolerate a wider range. The upper limit falls between 75~85℉(25~30℃), while it can endure temperatures as low as 5℉(-15℃) on the lower end. However, it is important to note that Pink tickseed prefers cooler environments, so exceeding the upper limit may slow down growth or even lead to the plant's demise if exposed to temperatures above 85℉(30℃).

Does Pink tickseed need different temperatures for different stages of growth?

To ensure the healthy growth of Pink tickseed, maintain a temperature range of 65~75℉(18~25℃) in your growing space. It is best to stay on the colder side of this range but be careful not to go below -5℉(-20℃). Extremely cold temperatures can hinder growth at any stage, although they are not as harmful as extreme heat. If temperatures are too high during the budding stage, Pink tickseed may not flower.

Here are three tips to help keep Pink tickseed's temperature under control.

Here are some tips to help you grow Pink tickseed successfully indoors: Tip #1: Choose the coldest room: When growing Pink tickseed indoors, select the coldest room in your home. This room is usually on the side of your house that doesn't get too hot from the sun's intense heat during the middle of the day. However, ensure the room still receives a sufficient amount of sunlight. While you want to protect your plants from the brightest and hottest part of the day, completely depriving them of sunlight can hinder their growth. Tip #2: Avoid high temperatures for proper flowering: Pink tickseed has its growing season in spring and early summer, which can sometimes come with high temperatures. These fluctuations can negatively impact the growth of Pink tickseed, causing the flowering buds to transform into non-flowering buds. These buds may only partially open or not open at all, resulting in a loss of aesthetic appeal. To maximize its flowering potential, it's important to maintain a temperature range of 65-75℉ (18-25℃). Tip #3: Protect from frost: Although Pink tickseed can tolerate low temperatures as low as -5℉ (-20℃), it cannot withstand significant frost. If exposed to the cold temperatures of late fall or winter, Pink tickseed will display signs of frost damage. Look for wilting and discoloration, which eventually leads to brown or blackened sections as they die. Unfortunately, any parts of Pink tickseed that exhibit these colors cannot be saved and should be pruned if you wish to keep the plant alive.

Does Pink tickseed require different temperatures in different seasons?

To maintain ideal conditions for growing Pink tickseed, it is essential to regulate the temperature throughout the year. If you reside in an area with extreme winters or summers, it is advisable to keep your plants indoors. By doing so, you can provide a cooler environment that facilitates optimal growth for Pink tickseed. However, if you choose to keep your plants outside, it is crucial to monitor the temperature closely. Particularly during hot summers, ensure that the temperature does not surpass 85℉(30℃). Exposing Pink tickseed to excessively high temperatures can cause dehydration and damage, eventually leading to their demise.

How should I keep Pink tickseed at the right temperature?

If you plan to put Pink tickseed outside, be sure to give it some shade during the hottest part of the day to protect it from the heat. While Pink tickseed needs plenty of sunlight to grow well, too much direct sunlight can cause temperature spikes and harm the plant. Look for a spot with shade from structures or tall trees to shield Pink tickseed from the strongest sun rays. If your climate isn't suitable for Pink tickseed or if you lack space in your garden, you can also grow it indoors. Indoor environments are easier to control, and with proper fans, ventilation, or an air conditioning unit, you can maintain the ideal temperature range of 65~75°F (18~25°C).

💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

The best time to fertilize a Pink tickseed is in early spring, when it is coming out of dormancy and starting active growth. Fertilization supplies essential nutrients for healthy development. Although Pink tickseed has relatively low fertilizer requirements, feeding it annually can improve its survival and encourage better, longer-lasting flowers.

FAQ
Why is it necessary to add fertilizer to my Pink tickseed?

Fertilization is vital for the Pink tickseed for a few reasons. Firstly, it provides essential nutrients that promote the plant's growth both above and below the ground. However, the Pink tickseed has relatively low overall fertilization requirements, and it can still survive without fertilization in certain circumstances. Nevertheless, annual fertilization can greatly benefit the Pink tickseed, helping it stay healthy and potentially improving the longevity of its flowers. Therefore, individuals who want their Pink tickseed to thrive should consider engaging in annual fertilization practices.

When should I fertilize my Pink tickseed for the best results?

Fertilizing a Pink tickseed is best done in late winter to early spring. This is when the plant is coming out of dormancy and starting to grow actively. Fertilizing during this time promotes healthy growth and sets the plant up for a successful season. Fertilizing in the fall is also acceptable, but it's not recommended during summer or winter.

When is the best time to not fertilize my Pink tickseed?

To ensure the healthy growth of Pink tickseed, it is recommended to fertilize during the late winter and early spring. This plant has minimal fertilization requirements, so a single feeding per year is sufficient. Overfertilizing during spring, summer, and fall can cause complications, unless you missed fertilizing in the spring, in which case fall fertilization is permissible. During the winter, when the Pink tickseed is dormant and not growing, fertilization is not necessary.

What kind of fertilizer does my Pink tickseed plant need?

To effectively fertilize your Pink tickseed, any general-purpose fertilizer with a balanced amount of the main plant nutrients will do the job. However, certain nutrient blends can provide even greater benefits. Many gardeners believe that higher levels of phosphorus result in stronger roots and better flower production, making it an ideal choice for Pink tickseed, which is a flowering plant. Whether you choose a granular or liquid form, ensure that the fertilizer has an adequate nutrient content. In addition to synthetic fertilizers, you can also improve the soil for Pink tickseed using organic methods. Compost, manure, and similar materials can greatly enhance the fertility of the growing medium.

How do I feed my Pink tickseed plant?

To fertilize a Pink tickseed, the most common method is to use a granular or pellet fertilizer. For best results, apply the fertilizer when the plant starts growing actively after its dormant phase in winter. In early spring, wait for shoots to emerge from the soil before applying fertilizer. Alternatively, some people prefer using liquid fertilizer, which needs to be diluted with water before application. It's important to remember to moisten the soil before, during, and after applying either granular or liquid fertilizer.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

Pink tickseed has vibrant pink blooms and benefits from pruning between early and late spring. To encourage continuous blooming, remove dead stems and trim spent flowers. After the flowering period, cut the plant back by one-third to promote compact growth. Pruning not only helps the plant maintain its shape but also improves air circulation, reducing the risk of disease. Always use clean tools when pruning to prevent infections.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Coreopsis
Family
Asteraceae
Hardiness Zone
4-7
Mature Height
30 cm to 91 cm
Mature Spread
30 cm to 61 cm
Leaf Color
Green, Blue
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Pink, White
Flower Size
2.54 cm
Bloom Time
Summer, Fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Fall, Early winter

Tags (7)

Common Names (4)

en Pink Tickseed
en Pink Coreopsis
en Rose Coreopsis
en Tickseed