Coreopsis- Plains (Coreopsis tinctoria) (Florida Native)

This plant's blazing brightness and heat-loving, drought tolerant growth has made it one of the most well known native wildflowers, as well as being a popular choice of beginning gardeners and master gardeners alike. Also known as Dye Flower, Native Americans once used its blossoms for making yellow and orange dyes. The genus name Coreopsis, derived from the Greek "koris," refers to the resemblance of Plains coreopsis seeds to bedbugs. The flowers in this family have become especially well loved by the citizens of the state of Florida, who appointed Coreopsis as their official state wildflower in 1991. This plant likes almost any soil type. Save the well amended areas for the fruits and veggies. Coreopsis needs regular watering throughout it's early days, but is very drought tolerant when established. Direct sow in the Fall to let the seeds over-winter for a Spring and Summer bloom. If planting seeds in the late winter, the seeds need 2-4 weeks of cold/wet stratification.