Also Named: Golden Tickseed,
Goldenwave, Plains Coreopsis, Calliopsis
Description Numerous smooth, slightly angled branches
bearing showy, daisy-like flower heads with yellow rays surrounding
a reddish-purple central disk.
Flowers: Head to
1 1/4" (3 cm) wide; rays
5-7, each 3-toothed, blotched with reddish brown at base;
outer bracts shorter than
inner ones, dissimilar.
Leaves: 2-4" (5-10 cm) long, opposite, highly dissected
into linear segments.
Height: 2-4' (60-120 cm).
Flower June-September.
Habitat Low ground, roadsides, and waste places.
Range Throughout East, except Maritime Provinces and far north;
also in much of West.
Discussion This prevailingly western annual has escaped from
cultivation in the East. It is widespread in the West and the
South in disturbed areas, such as moist ditches. Because of its
showiness, the flower is cultivated extensively, hence its common
name.
