Description
Tall Coreopsis (Coreopsis tripteris) is a tall, upright native wildflower known for its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom from mid to late summer into fall. Mature plants typically reach 5–7 feet tall and can occasionally grow up to 9 feet, making it a strong structural plant for prairies and larger native gardens. The flowers attract a wide variety of bees and butterflies, while the seeds provide food for birds.
Tall Coreopsis grows best in full sun and tolerates a wide range of soils, including heavier clay. It prefers medium moisture but is adaptable once established. Because of its height, it works well toward the back of a garden bed or in prairie plantings where tall flowering species are desired.
The flowers are arranged in flat-topped clusters, with yellow petals surrounding a yellow disk that deepens to purple-red. Its lower leaves are large and divided into three lobes, giving the plant its species name, tripteris. Unlike many other Coreopsis species, Tall Coreopsis blooms later in the growing season, providing flowers from mid-summer into fall.
Tall Coreopsis stands apart from other Coreopsis species by its height and later bloom period. Prairie Coreopsis (Coreopsis palmata) is shorter and spreads through rhizomes, while Lanceleaf Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) is also shorter and blooms earlier. Plains Coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria) is an annual that grows quickly from seed and has smaller flowers with dark red centers.
Tall Coreopsis can spread aggressively, particularly in moist, recently disturbed soils. Start with a few plants to establish a loose colony and give it plenty of room to spread. It may not be the best choice for small landscape beds.
