Prairie tickseed – Coreopsis vertillata ‘moonbeam’

I love how Coreopsis flowers appear to float like tiny yellow hovercrafts above the ground. They are prolific flowerers as well, and seem to have established friendships among a broad spectrum of native bees.

Coreopsis flower heads with seeds tucked away inside.

Coreopsis flower with native solitary bee.

I don’t know the true origin of their common name “tickseed”, but their seeds do kind of resemble little ticks. This plant blooms early to middle June, and the blooms last well into July. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil, but can tolerate partial sun if you must.

Coreopsis flower heads with seeds tucked away inside.