Southeastern Tickseed Coreopsis gladiata Play pronunciation

Coastal Plain tickseed is a herbaceous perennial wildflower of the Southeastern United States, and is found along the edge of swamps, floodplain forests, wet prairies, marshes, or ditches. In North Carolina, this plant has been found only in the sandhills in Hoke County. It was listed as significantly rare in 2024. It grows 2 to 2.5 feet tall and 1.5 to 2 feet wide in small clumps, and has a slender, erect, branching stem. The flowers appear in early September and consist of small, tubular centers of brown or maroon with yellow petal rays, attractive to butterflies, bees, and birds. It has both basal and cauline leaves that are medium green and elliptic to lanceolate. It is a member of the daisy family (Asteraceae). The genus name, Coreopsis, is derived from two Greek words: koris, meaning "bug," and opsis, meaning "like." This refers to the bug-like shape of the plant's seeds. The specific epithet, gladiata, means sword-shaped and refers to its leaves.

Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist to wet, sandy, acidic soils. It can tolerate brief periods of dry soil, but it is intolerant of salt spray.

The distinguishing feature of the Coastal Plain tickseed is its broad, elliptical leaves at the base and lower stem. Blooming occurs in the fall, while other species bloom in the spring or summer. 

Coastal Plain tickseed seeds or plants are available for purchase in specialty nurseries in North Carolina or from native plant growers. Consider this species in your cottage garden or for naturalizing to add some bright yellow daisy-like flowers to your fall garden. Birds and small mammals will also appreciate the seeds produced.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  May be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. Monitor for powdery mildew, root rot, and crown rot. It can be damaged by browsing deer.