Whorled tickseed
Coreopsis verticillatafam. Asteraceae
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Pl. 145B — Coreopsis verticillata
Coreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillataCoreopsis verticillata
IOverview
Overview
Whorled tickseed (Coreopsis verticillata) is a perennial forb native to the eastern United States and Canada, thriving in habitats such as Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Ontario, Québec, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Known for its ornamental value, this plant is also edible, with its flowers being the parts used. Whorled tickseed prefers full sun to partial shade in dry to moist conditions, thriving in light (sandy) or medium soil types. It can grow up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in zones 3-9. Its distinctive whorled leaves and daisy-like flowers make it a standout addition to any garden.
Quick answers
What is Whorled tickseed?
Whorled tickseed (Coreopsis verticillata) is a perennial forb native to the eastern United States and Canada, thriving in habitats such as Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Ca
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Whorled tickseed thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate dry to moist conditions but requires regular watering during dry spells. Hardy from zones 3-9, this perennial grows up to 1 meter tall and can be propagated by division or seed. For best results, plant in a location where it will receive full sun throughout the day. Skip hardiness zone specifics as they are not provided for every region.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
3-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Whorled tickseed for the first time
8steps
Whorled tickseed is a low-maintenance perennial that's perfect for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
A packet of Whorled tickseed seeds or young plants, a trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 for best results.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost is past, or start indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plants regularly to help them establish. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering during dry spells, especially when flowering. Deadhead spent flowers for continuous bloom.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back plants in late winter to early spring to encourage new growth and maintain shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting deadheading, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: The flowers of the Whorled tickseed can be eaten raw or used in salads for a light, flavorful addition. They are also suitable for drying and can be incorporated into teas or used as a garnish.
Other uses:Erosion controlGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
20 native · 3 introduced
Distribution
20 native · 3 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 20 native· 3 introduced
Europe3 regions
introduced (3)BelgiumFranceNorway
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Masachusettes, Arkansas, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Ontario, Québec, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Massachusetts, Alabama
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asteraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asteraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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