Summer Sunshine Coreopsis (Coreopsis palustris ‘Summer Sunshine’)
Summer Sunshine Coreopsis (Coreopsis palustris ‘Summer Sunshine’), also known as tickseed, is a tall, long-blooming perennial celebrated for its bright golden-yellow flowers and ability to thrive in moist conditions. This heat- and humidity-tolerant variety flourishes in sunny garden spaces, offering an eye-catching floral display from late summer through fall.
Distinctive Features
Summer Sunshine Coreopsis produces an abundance of 2-inch daisy-like flowers with rich golden-yellow petals and a prominent golden center. Its upright, clumping growth habit and deep green foliage create an elegant contrast, making it a standout in borders and wetland gardens.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun but tolerates light shade.
- Soil: Thrives in moist, well-drained soil but tolerates periodic wet conditions.
- Water: Prefers consistent moisture but is adaptable to drier conditions once established.
- Humidity: Adaptable to a range of humidity levels; performs well in humid climates.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
Ideal Uses
- Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich blooms.
- Rain Gardens: Thrives in damp, moisture-retentive soil.
- Border Plantings: Adds height and late-season color to mixed perennial borders.
- Wetland and Meadow Gardens: Ideal for naturalized plantings in damp environments.
- Cut Flower Gardens: Golden blooms provide vibrant color to floral arrangements.
Low Maintenance Care
Summer Sunshine Coreopsis is an easy-to-grow perennial that requires minimal care.
- Watering: Prefers consistently moist soil but tolerates occasional dry periods.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage prolonged flowering.
- Fertilizing: Benefits from light feeding with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: Resistant to most common pests and diseases.
- Winter Care: Cut back spent foliage in late fall for a tidy appearance.
Why Choose Summer Sunshine Coreopsis?
Summer Sunshine Coreopsis is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a vibrant, moisture-tolerant perennial that thrives in a range of conditions.
- Bright Golden Blooms: Cheerful yellow flowers that shine in late summer and fall.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Supports bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Thrives in Moist Conditions: Well-suited for rain gardens and damp landscapes.
- Tall and Elegant: Provides vertical interest in perennial borders and naturalized settings.
- Low Maintenance: Requires little upkeep beyond deadheading and occasional watering.
For a resilient, easy-care perennial that brings lasting golden color to wetland gardens and sunny borders, Summer Sunshine Coreopsis (Coreopsis palustris ‘Summer Sunshine’) is an outstanding choice.