- Threadleaf or whorled coreopsis is a medium-sized, rounded plant that only grows 2 to 3 feet tall. Hardy in zones 3 to 9, this drought-tolerant coreopsis species produces yellow flowers in early summer. Cut off the flowers when spent for a second bloom in the fall. Threadleaf coreopsis prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Cultivars include Moonbeam, Zagred and Golden Showers, all yellow-flowered varieties. Heaven's Gate produces large, red-centered pink flowers. Rosea produces pink flowers and only grows 12 to 15 inches tall. Threadleaf coreopsis is susceptible to powdery mildew or aphid infestations.
- Commonly called the dwarf Red Plains coreopsis, this species fairly erupts into bloom in April and doesn't stop until August. The dark red flowers with yellow centers form a canopy of bright color. Dwarf Red Plains coreopsis makes a good accent plant, or mass several together for a fountain of color. Plant in full sun in any kind of soil, including soggy areas.
- Called tickseed because the seeds look like fat ticks, this plant grows mainly in coastal areas of zones 3 to 8 and reaches a height of about 30 inches. The daisy-like pink flowers with yellow centers appear in early summer and last until summer's end. This species requires medium moisture and is not drought tolerant. Deadhead the spent flowers for a second round of blooms in the fall. Plant tickseed in full sun in moist but well-drained soil. Butterflies like tickseed.
- Breeders continually develop new varieties of coreopsis. Some, like the Baby Sun, have a more compact, mounding habit that solves the problem of the plant becoming top-heavy and falling over. Some varieties produce flowers in brilliant colors never seen before. Many varieties have both qualities. New breeds of coreopsis include a dark red with white markings called Cranberry Ice, an almost neon pink variety called Tropical Lemonade, and a rich orange variety called Pumpkin Pie. Not all cultivars are perennials.
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