Coreopsis Mouse-Ear

Coreopsis auriculata

Characteristics

Culture

Coreopsis auriculate, also known as mouse-ear or lobed tickseed is a native stoloniferous perennial in the Asteraceae family. It grows easily and is low maintenance, making its long blooms attractive in borders and beds, and it naturalizes easily. It tolerates humidity well and some dry conditions, but it is not as drought tolerant as some other species of Coreopsis. It is resistant to damage by deer.

Noteworthy Characteristics

This plant was selected as the 1991 NC Wildflower of the Year, a program managed by the North Carolina Botanical Garden with some financial support from the Garden Club of North Carolina.

Deadheading of spent flower stalks is tedious for a large planting, but it will encourage additional bloom. Shear plants in mid-summer to promote a fall rebloom and to tidy lanky unkempt foliage. With ideal growing conditions, it spreads over time to form an attractive mass planting. Do not fear, the spread is easy to check if you need to keep it in line. Divide clumps in the spring to spread around your garden or share with friends.  

‘Nana’ is a dwarf selection that typically grows to 6-9” tall so it works well in the front of a border or along an edge. Do not plant it from seeds collected from your own plant as it will not grow true to form. Divide or take cuttings to propagate this cultivar.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems but crown rot may occur if grown in moist, poorly drained soils. It will sprawl out if grown in moist and/or fertile soils and it will show foliage burn in hot summer.

Garden Uses

Meadow, naturalized area, walkways, pollinator garden, rock garden, cottage garden, butterfly garden. Accent, border, mass planting, small groups. Attracts butterflies, pollinators, and songbirds.

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Information from: North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox and Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center