Coreopsis lanceolata Sunburst for planting bright yellow bloom patch home wildflower garden

Lance-Leaf Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata), also known as the Sunburst variety, is a bright and cheerful perennial that adds warmth and vibrancy to any garden. Featuring stunning yellow petals with a red center, this variety is perfect for sunny spots and attracts pollinators with its eye-catching flowers. Easy to grow and maintain, Sunburst Coreopsis is ideal for creating colorful borders, wildflower meadows, or container gardens.

Key Benefits

• Bright, Sunburst Blooms: The striking yellow petals with a red center create a radiant sunburst effect, bringing energy to your garden.
• Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, helping to support a healthy garden ecosystem.
• Long-Lasting Blooms: Blooms from early summer to fall, providing long-lasting color in the garden.
• Low Maintenance: Drought-tolerant once established, and thrives in full sun with minimal care.
• Compact Growth: Ideal for smaller gardens or containers, as it reaches a manageable height and spread.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Lance-shaped, dark green leaves with vibrant yellow flowers featuring a red center. The flowers are about 2 inches in diameter.
• Flower Color: Bright yellow petals with a red central eye, creating a striking sunburst appearance.
• Growth Habit: Compact and upright, growing to about 18–24 inches in height with a spread of 12–18 inches.
• Size: Typically grows 18–24 inches tall with a spread of 12–18 inches.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Plant seeds in early spring after the last frost or in late fall for a spring bloom.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/8 inch deep.
• Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for air circulation and full growth.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade in warmer climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once established, Sunburst Coreopsis is drought-tolerant and requires less frequent watering.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to reduced flowering.

Weeding and Mulching

• Keep the area free from weeds, especially when young, to avoid competition. Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pest and Disease Control

Pests

• Generally resistant to pests, but can attract aphids or spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.

Diseases

• Susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. Avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plants.

Harvesting

Maturity

• Blooms from early summer to fall. Flowers are ready to harvest when they are fully open.

Seed Harvesting

• Allow flower heads to mature and dry before collecting seeds. Store them in a cool, dry place.

Storage

Short-Term

• Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry location for up to one year.

Long-Term

• Keep seeds in a dark, cool place to ensure they stay viable for several seasons.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses

• Culinary Uses: The flowers of the Coreopsis plant are edible and can be used as a garnish for salads or desserts, though they are not commonly consumed.
• Medicinal Uses: Coreopsis is not widely used in modern medicine but has historically been used for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties in traditional practices.

Conclusion

Sunburst Lance-Leaf Coreopsis is a vibrant, low-maintenance perennial that brings striking color and texture to any garden. Its cheerful yellow and red flowers are a beacon for pollinators and offer long-lasting beauty throughout the growing season. Whether used in borders, wildflower meadows, or containers, Sunburst Coreopsis is easy to grow, drought-tolerant, and adds a sunny burst of color to your garden.