Golden Tickseed
Coreopsis tinctoria
Golden tickseed is a vibrant, easy-to-grow annual wildflower native to the North American plains, beloved for its cheerful golden-yellow and maroon daisy-like blooms and its exceptional value as a pollinator and wildlife plant.
Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Summer to fall (June–October); long blooming with continued deadheading
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: gaillardias and dahlberg daisys also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
In the Victorian language of flowers, coreopsis means "always cheerful," and this meaning has endured as the defining symbol of the flower. As the state wildflower of Florida, golden tickseed holds regional cultural significance in the American Southeast and Great Plains. Its effortless, sunny beauty has made it an emblem of uncomplicated joy and the wild abundance of the American prairie landscape.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; at least 6 hours daily for the best and most prolific flowering
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established; self-sows freely in suitable conditions
Soil
Sandy, Loamy, Well-drained, Low fertility tolerated, Dry to moderately moist
Expert Growing Tips
Direct sow seeds on the soil surface in early spring or fall — do not bury, as seeds need light to germinate
Thrives in poor to average soil; over-fertilizing leads to lush foliage but fewer flowers
Deadhead regularly to extend blooming well into fall
Allow some plants to set seed for reliable self-seeding the following year
Extremely easy to grow — one of the best wildflowers for beginner gardeners
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Wildflower meadow and prairie seed mixes
- Cottage and cutting gardens
- Wildlife and pollinator gardens
- Naturalistic and low-maintenance landscape planting
- Native plant restoration and roadside beautification
Traditional Uses
- Some Native American peoples traditionally brewed flower teas and used root infusions from Coreopsis species as mild tonics
- The epithet tinctoria ("of the dyers") reflects its historical use as a source of yellow and red fabric dye
- Coreopsis is the state wildflower of Florida and has been used symbolically in regional cultural and horticultural contexts
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Golden Tickseed
What does golden tickseed (coreopsis) symbolize?
Golden tickseed symbolizes "always cheerful" in the Victorian language of flowers — a meaning that has remained closely associated with coreopsis to this day. It represents warmth, happiness, and sunny optimism.
Is golden tickseed a perennial or annual?
Coreopsis tinctoria (golden tickseed / plains coreopsis) is an annual, completing its life cycle in one growing season. Related species like Coreopsis verticillata are perennial. Both types self-seed readily and can appear to return year after year in the garden.
What is coreopsis the state flower of?
Coreopsis is the state wildflower of Florida. Several Coreopsis species are native to Florida, and the genus was officially designated as the state wildflower in 1991.
Is golden tickseed good for pollinators?
Yes — golden tickseed is excellent for pollinators. Its open, accessible flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, and its seeds are eaten by birds including goldfinches and sparrows.
How do I get golden tickseed to bloom all summer?
Regular deadheading (removing spent blooms) is the key to keeping golden tickseed blooming from summer through fall. Without deadheading, plants set seed and stop flowering earlier. Cutting plants back by about one-third in midsummer can also encourage a fresh flush of growth and flowers.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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