Coreopsis tinctoria Tall Red for planting vibrant native flower garden summer floral show

Plains Coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria), known for its cheerful daisy-like flowers, is a vibrant and hardy perennial that thrives in a variety of growing conditions. The Tall Red variety features stunning red blooms with yellow centers, creating a striking contrast in gardens. This variety is perfect for those looking to add a burst of color to their landscapes, and its long blooming period and easy care make it a favorite among gardeners.

Key Benefits

• Striking Red Flowers: The Tall Red variety of Plains Coreopsis produces bold, red flowers with yellow centers, creating a dramatic color contrast in your garden.
• Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting the health of your garden's ecosystem.
• Low Maintenance: Tolerates a range of soil types and is drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardening.
• Long Blooming Period: Blooms continuously from early summer to fall, providing long-lasting color.
• Resilient Growth: Hardy and adaptable, this variety thrives in full sun and can withstand various weather conditions, including heat and drought.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Tall, upright plants with lance-shaped leaves and vibrant red, daisy-like flowers. The flowers are typically 2–3 inches in diameter, with a striking yellow center.
• Flower Color: Red petals with a contrasting yellow center, creating a vivid display in the garden.
• Growth Habit: Tall, reaching up to 36–48 inches in height, with a spread of 18–24 inches, making it perfect for the back of borders or wildflower meadows.
• Size: Typically grows 36–48 inches tall with a spread of 18–24 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 adequate growth and air circulation.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5).
• Sunlight: Full sun is ideal for optimal blooming, but the plant can tolerate light shade in warmer climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

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

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring for healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can reduce blooming.

Weeding and Mulching

• Keep the area around the plant free of weeds, especially when young. Mulch can help retain moisture and reduce weed growth.

Pest and Disease Control

Pests

• Generally pest-resistant but may occasionally attract aphids or spider mites. Use insecticidal soap if necessary.

Diseases

• Tolerant of most diseases but can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Harvesting

Maturity

• Blooms from early summer to fall. Seeds can be collected once the flower heads dry and turn brown.

Seed Harvesting

• Once the flower heads have dried, gently cut and collect them for storage.

Storage

Short-Term

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

Long-Term

• For long-term storage, keep seeds in a dark, cool location to maintain their viability for several growing seasons.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses

• Culinary Uses: While not commonly used in cooking, Coreopsis flowers can be used as decorative garnishes in salads or as part of edible flower arrangements.
• Medicinal Uses: Coreopsis has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, though it is not a primary medicinal herb today.

Conclusion

The Tall Red Plains Coreopsis is a vibrant and hardy perennial that brings striking color and beauty to any garden. Its stunning red flowers, long bloom period, and pollinator-friendly nature make it a favorite for gardeners looking to add a touch of drama to their landscapes. Easy to grow, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance, this Coreopsis variety is an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels, providing reliable color throughout the summer and fall months.