Overview
Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm. is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is commonly known as the "woodland tickseed" or "sandyland tickseed". The plant is native to eastern North America, including the southeastern and midwestern United States. It can be found growing in dry or moist habitats, such as open woods, meadows, and roadsides.
Description
The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, and has a clump-forming habit. Its foliage is dark green and finely textured, with lance-shaped leaves that are up to 3 inches long. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem, and they have entire margins and pointed tips. In midsummer to early fall, the plant produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that are about 1 inch wide. The flowers have 8 ray petals and a dark brown cone-shaped center.
Uses
Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm. is often grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and foliage. It is a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers because of its easy-to-grow nature and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The plant is also used in wildflower mixes and prairie restorations.
Additionally, the plant has traditional medicinal uses. Some Native American tribes used it to treat various ailments, such as fever, stomach cramps, and respiratory problems. Nowadays, it is commonly used as a natural remedy for coughs and colds, as well as for digestive issues like diarrhea and constipation. However, it is important to note that the plant's medicinal properties have not been scientifically proven, and you should consult a healthcare professional before using it for any health-related purposes.
Light Requirements
Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm. thrives in full sunlight and prefers to receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It is not suitable for areas with partial or dense shade, as it may lead to the plant's poor growth or even death.
Temperature Requirements
Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm. can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It does best when grown in mild to moderate temperatures that range between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant can survive in a wide range of temperatures but cannot withstand extreme heat or cold conditions.
Soil Requirements
These plants prefer well-drained soils with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and you can add compost and manure to improve soil fertility. The plant can also grow in poor soil, but it will not thrive as well as in well-drained soil. Additionally, soil with good aeration is essential to ensure that the plant's roots receive adequate oxygen.
Cultivation of Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm.
Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm. is a hardy plant that is easy to cultivate. It can grow in a wide range of soils and is tolerant of dry conditions, making it a low maintenance plant to grow.
The plant can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or by division. It is recommended to sow seeds in the spring or fall and keep the soil moist until the plants have germinated.
If propagated by division, it should be done in the spring when the new growth emerges. The plant can also be propagated by softwood cuttings taken in the early summer.
Watering needs of Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm.
Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm. does not require excessive watering and is drought-tolerant. However, during very dry spells, the plant will require watering to keep the soil moist. Over-watering can lead to root rot and adversely affect the plant's health.
The best practice is to water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out before watering it again. This practice encourages deep root growth and promotes the plant's health and longevity.
Fertilization of Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm.
Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm. is not a heavy feeder and will grow well in most soils without adding fertilizers. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer in the spring will help promote growth and encourage blooming.
Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering. Alternatively, using an organic fertilizer can be beneficial, as it slowly releases nutrients into the soil.
Pruning Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm.
Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm. requires minimal pruning. Deadheading spent flowers promotes continued blooming and maintains the plant's appearance throughout the growing season.
In the fall, cutting back the plants to a few inches above the ground will keep the plant tidy and prepare it for winter dormancy. It also rejuvenates the plant for the next growing season.
Propagation of Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm.
Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm., commonly known as 'Hairy tickseed', is a beautiful plant that belongs to the Aster family. It is an easy-to-grow perennial that produces brilliant yellow flowers that bloom in summer. The plant has a woody root system, and it grows up to 3 feet tall.
Propagation methods
Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm. can be propagated through different methods, including:
- Seed propagation: Hairy tickseed can be grown from seeds, which are produced in abundance after the plant has finished blooming. The seeds can be collected, dried, and stored in a cool place until the next planting season. For best results, they should be sown in early spring, either indoors or outdoors.
- Division: The plant can also be propagated by dividing the roots. This can be done in spring or fall by carefully digging up the plant and separating the woody roots into smaller sections, each with a shoot. The divided sections can then be replanted in a suitable location with well-draining soil.
- Cuttings: Another way to propagate Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm. is through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken in early summer, when the plant is actively growing. They should be 4-6 inches long and should have several leaves. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they establish roots.
By using any of these propagation methods, you can easily propagate Coreopsis lupulina O.Hoffm. and enjoy the beauty of this plant in your garden.
Disease and Pest Management of Coreopsis Lupulina O. Hoffm.
Coreopsis lupulina O. Hoffm. is a herbaceous perennial shrub that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant produces plenty of yellow flowers throughout the summer season, making it an attractive addition to gardens and landscapes.
Diseases
Several diseases can impact Coreopsis lupulina, including:
Aster Yellow
Aster yellow is a disease caused by a phytoplasma that affects plants in the Asteraceae family. Affected plants will have yellowish leaves with stunted growth and abnormal flower formation. The best way to manage Aster yellow is to remove and destroy infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as white, powdery spots on the plant's leaves and stems. Infected leaves will fall off, and the plant's growth will be stunted. To manage powdery mildew, use fungicides, and maintain proper air circulation and watering practices to avoid creating a humid environment for the fungi to grow.
Crown Rot
Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the plant's stem at the soil line. The affected area turns brown and can infect the entire plant, causing it to wilt and eventually die. To manage crown rot, remove and destroy all infected plant parts and avoid overwatering the plant.
Pests
Coreopsis lupulina is also susceptible to pest infestations. Some of the common pests that might attack Coreopsis lupulina include:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the plant's sap, leaving tiny yellow spots on the leaves. Infested leaves will eventually fall off, leaving behind a web-like substance. To prevent spider mites, keep your plants well-watered and regularly spray them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Leaf Miners
Leaf miners are the larvae of tiny flies that tunnel into the leaves, creating trails that are visible on the leaves' surface. Infested leaves will eventually dry out and fall off. To manage leaf miners, remove all infected plant parts and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to deter the flies from laying their eggs on the leaves.
Thrips
Thrips are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing deformed and discolored leaves. They are also capable of spreading viruses, which can severely impact the plant's health. To prevent thrips, keep the plants well-watered and regularly treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Proper plant care and management are crucial to keep Coreopsis lupulina healthy and pest-free. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of disease and pests, coupled with timely intervention, could prevent a full-blown infestation or diseased outbreak.
