Page 126 - South Mississippi Living - January, 2026

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CoreopsisThe Mississippi State Wildflower
Coreopsis Tikseed
Everyone knows that the Mississippi state flower is the Magnolia, but did you know that we have a state wildflower as well? If you are interested in planting Mississippi’s state wildflower, Coreopsis, this coming spring, then this article is for you. To liven up winter time, let’s talk about this gorgeous plant also known tickseed.
While coreopsis has been recognized as a valuable plant for gardens and landscapes for centuries, its selection as the Mississippi state wildflower was not designated until 1991.
Mississippi recognizes that Coreopsis has had a widespread presence across our state; therefore, the state chose to include all 35 species as the state wildflower.
Coreopsis plants are very versatile as they come in a wide range of colors and patterns including pinks and yellows. The perennial plants are very popular with
low maintenance. They are adaptable to hot, Mississippi summers. If it’s too hot, they may need some afternoon shade. But, do make sure they get 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Also, Coreopsis is a great companion plant for ornamental grasses and other tough annuals and perennials.
Perennial coreopsis plants can be planted anytime from spring through early fall. Annual varieties should be seeded directly in the ground after the last spring frost. If you wish to start earlier, sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost.
Annual varieties will start blooming
in early summer and repeat bloom periodically through the fall, while perennial varieties will begin blooming the second year after planting from seed.
Plant coreopsis in well-drained soil. After they are in an established garden,
story by Gaye Winter
Limerock Ruby
Moonbeam
coreopsis plants prefer to be left a little on the dry side.
Coreopsis attracts butterflies, beneficial insects, and birds. Hummingbirds are definitely attracted to these bright-colored wildflowers. Hummingbirds are also attracted to Coreopsis flowers because Coreopsis flowers are rich in nectar, making them an attractive food source. The blossoms can last a while. As the season progresses, leave a few flowers
on the plants so birds can eat the seeds. Meticulous deadheading can help the plant to re-bloom.
Even though the Coreopsis can tolerate drought conditions, it likes temperatures ranging from 50 degrees nighttime to 80 degrees daytime. Coreopsis is a highly adaptable group of plants that are super easy to use in nearly all garden settings:
Yarrow is a type that thrives without much attention—it gives gardens a
126 | January 2026
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