Coreopsis tripteris

When tall coreopsis is viewed among its tallgrass prairie associates – big bluestem, switchgrass, and Indian grass – its yellow-rayed flowers appear to be an expression of joy at finally reaching the sunlight. With elegantly divided leaves and a delicate, single-stemmed form, tall coreopsis has a graceful appearance that belies its tough nature. Indeed, this robust plant has earned a reputation as one of the few wildflowers that can hold its own against perennial grasses. In both grass and forb dominated landscapes, the coreopsis genus is distinguished for the diversity of pollinators it supports, with tall coreopsis attracting a wide array of bees, wasps, butterflies, skippers, flies, and beetles.

Preferring conditions of full sun and moderate soil moisture, tall coreopsis is a native constituent of NE Ohio habitats including meadows and large woodland openings. The plant can attain a height of 8’, and often forms colonies through growing via underground stems called rhizomes. Tall coreopsis’ blooming period lasts for approximately one month and takes place during the interval from mid summer to early fall.

Photo by Ashley Keesling.