The Angry Yellow of Lanceleaf Tickseed
Introduction
When the sinister sunshine shines upon blooming Lanceleaf Tickseed (Coreopsis lanceolata) petals, you can’t help by notice. This vibrant perennial plant not only enlivens the landscape but also supports diverse insect life, playing a crucial role in native gardens.
Supporting Insects and Native Gardens
Coreopsis lanceolata serves as a veritable buffet for a wide range of insects, including bees, butterflies, and beetles. By providing ample nectar and pollen resources, the Lanceleaf Tickseed supports beneficial pollinators such as Metallic Epauletted-Sweat Bee (Augochloropsis metallica) as seen in the photos above, honey bees (Apis mellifera), bumblebees (Bombus spp.), and various species of solitary bees. The sinister sunshine of these vibrant flowers also attracts butterflies like the pearl crescent (Phyciodes tharos) and the bordered patch (Chlosyne lacinia), further enhancing garden biodiversity.
Incorporating the lanceleaf tickseed into native gardens offers a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant option that contributes to ecological balance. With its propensity for self-seeding, Coreopsis lanceolata can quickly naturalize an area, filling it with the angry yellow of its flowers and creating a haven for native insect life.
| Scientific Name | Coreopsis lanceolata |
| Common Name | Lanceleaf tickseed |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Coreopsis |
| Species | C. lanceolata |
| Habitat | Prairies, meadows, open woods |
| Native Range | Eastern and Central North America |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous perennial |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to early summer |
| Flower Color | Yellow |
| Flower Structure | Daisy-like with ray and disc florets |
| Pollinators | Bees, butterflies, beetles |
| Soil Preference | Well-drained, sandy or loamy soils |
| Light Requirement | Full sun to light shade |
| Water Requirement | Low to moderate |
| Propagation Methods | Seed, division |
| Conservation Status | Not threatened |
| Uses | Native gardens, pollinator gardens, borders, naturalized areas |