Threadleaf Coreopsis Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam'
ABOUT
Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' is a captivating perennial known for its delicate and airy appearance. The plant is highlighted by its fine, threadlike foliage that is a rich green in color, creating a feathery backdrop for the charming flowers. The leaves are delicate and fern-like, giving the plant an almost whimsical, lacy texture. The flowers of Coreopsis 'Moonbeam' are star-shaped and display a soft, pale yellow hue. Each bloom has a darker yellow center, which adds depth and contrast to the flower. These daisy-like flowers are produced in abundance, creating a sea of subtle color that can bring a soft, romantic feel to any garden space. This variety of Coreopsis is particularly appreciated for its extended blooming period, which lasts from early summer well into the fall, offering gardeners a long-lasting display of color. The flowers are arrayed on slender stems that dance above the foliage with even the slightest breeze, adding movement and life to the plant's presentation. In addition to its visual appeal, 'Moonbeam' is a welcoming addition to any garden meant to attract pollinators. Butterflies and bees are often seen flitting from bloom to bloom, which not only helps with pollination but also provides a lively and dynamic environment for nature lovers to enjoy. Overall, Coreopsis 'Moonbeam' is a plant that exudes charm with its airy foliage, light yellow blossoms, and graceful form, making it a delightful presence in any landscape setting that requires a touch of gentle color and texture.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Threadleaf Coreopsis, Whorled Tickseed, Thread-leaved Tickseed, Threadleaf Tickseed, Fern-leaf Coreopsis, Moonbeam Coreopsis
Common names
Leptosyne verticillata, Coreopsis verticillata.
ToxicityTo humans
The Coreopsis, commonly known as tickseed, is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no significant symptoms of poisoning associated with Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam', as it is generally considered safe. Ingesting any part of this plant does not typically result in any adverse reactions. However, individuals with plant allergies or sensitivities should still handle plants with caution.
To pets
The Coreopsis, commonly referred to as tickseed, is considered non-toxic to pets. It does not typically cause any symptoms of poisoning if pets ingest parts of this plant. The Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' is regarded as safe for dogs, cats, and other domestic animals. However, as a precaution, keep an eye on your pets whenever they are around plants, as individual reactions can vary.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam', commonly known as Threadleaf Coreopsis, is known to attract butterflies and bees, which are beneficial for pollination in the garden.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Moonbeam Coreopsis shows excellent drought resistance, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care once established, with no need for frequent watering or fertilization.
- Long Blooming Season: Moonbeam Coreopsis produces flowers continually from early summer to fall, providing a long-lasting display of color.
- Deer Resistant: Its foliage is not favored by deer, which can make it a good choice for areas where deer browsing is a problem.
- Easy to Propagate: The plant can be easily propagated by division, allowing gardeners to create more plants for use around the garden without additional cost.
- Landscape Versatility: Its compact growth and soft yellow flowers make it suitable for borders, rock gardens, containers, and as ground cover.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Textile Dyeing - The flowers and leaves of Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' can be used to create a natural dye for coloring textiles.
- Photography - The vibrant yellow blooms can be used as a subject in macro photography, highlighting the intricate details of the flowers.
- Educational Tool - The plant can be used in educational settings to teach about plant biology, pollination, and horticulture practices.
- Craft Projects - Dried flowers from the 'Moonbeam' can be used in scrapbooking, greeting cards, or paper making, adding natural elements to crafts.
- Garden Design - Used as a model in garden design software to illustrate potential garden layouts for hobbyists and professionals.
- Erosion Control - Planted in sloped areas of the garden, it can help stabilize the soil and prevent erosion due to its root system.
- Culinary Decoration - While not a common edible, the petals can be used to decorate plates or cakes for a touch of color (ensuring no pesticides have been used).
- Wreaths and Floral Arrangements - Both fresh and dried flowers can be incorporated into wreaths or floral displays for home decoration.
- Pollinator Education - The plant serves as an excellent example to educate the public on the importance of pollinators and how to create pollinator-friendly gardens.
- Art Supplies - The stems and flowers can be used to make botanical prints or to serve as stencils for painting and artwork.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Threadleaf Coreopsis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Threadleaf Coreopsis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Optimism: Coreopsis, often referred to by its common name Tickseed, embodies a sense of hope and positivity. Its bright yellow blooms are like a splash of sunshine, which often symbolizes a positive outlook and good spirits.
- Cheerfulness: The vibrant yellow flowers of the Tickseed are also associated with cheerfulness, reflecting the plant's ability to brighten up a garden space and bring joy to onlookers.
- Love: While not as traditionally symbolic of love as the rose, Tickseed can represent a more lighthearted, playful type of love, possibly due to its carefree and abundant blooming nature.
- Good Fortune: In some cultures, Tickseed is believed to bring good luck, possibly due to the association of its bright color with prosperity and well-being.
WaterThreadleaf coreopsis, including the 'Moonbeam' variety, prefers regular watering but is drought tolerant once established. During the first growing season, water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water to encourage deep root growth. Adjust the frequency to account for rainfall and check the soil moisture; it should be moist but not soggy. As the plant becomes established, you can reduce watering to every two weeks unless there's a dry spell. Over-watering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage.
LightThe threadleaf coreopsis 'Moonbeam' thrives in full sun to light shade. It performs best when it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot would be in an area where the morning sun quickly dries the dew on the leaves, which can help prevent disease. If grown in too much shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
TemperatureThreadleaf coreopsis 'Moonbeam' is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9, tolerating temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing temperature for this plant is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth and flowering. It's a resilient plant that can withstand a wide range of temperatures once established.
PruningPrune the threadleaf coreopsis 'Moonbeam' to remove dead flowers, a practice known as deadheading, to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. Additionally, cut back the foliage by one-third in midsummer if the plant becomes leggy or if blooming declines. After the first hard frost in the fall, cut the plant back to the ground to promote healthy growth in the spring. Pruning is typically needed yearly.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThreadleaf Coreopsis, commonly known as 'Moonbeam', thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of loamy soil amended with organic matter such as compost or peat is ideal, providing good aeration and moisture retention while allowing excess water to drain away, preventing root rot.
Repotting'Moonbeam' Coreopsis does not frequently require repotting as it is typically grown as a perennial outdoor plant. However, if grown in containers, it may need repotting every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and to accommodate growth.
Humidity & Misting'Moonbeam' Coreopsis is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require specific moisture in the air as it is well adapted to outdoor garden conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-drained soil, and moderate water.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleCommonly known as 'Moonbeam' Threadleaf Coreopsis, Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' starts its life as a seed, typically sown in early spring after the threat of frost has passed. The seeds germinate in warm soil, and the plant begins to establish a root system and sends up its first shoots. Vegetative growth follows, with the plant developing a clump of fine, thread-like foliage that is characteristic of the variety. By early to mid-summer, 'Moonbeam' Coreopsis enters its flowering stage, producing an abundance of pale yellow, daisy-like flowers that attract pollinators. After the flowering period, which lasts until fall, seeds develop and are dispersed, allowing for the potential of self-seeding if conditions are favorable. The plant then enters dormancy over the winter, with the top growth dying back and the roots remaining alive to sprout again the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer
Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam', commonly known as Threadleaf Coreopsis, is typically propagated during the growing season by division. The most popular method is by dividing the plant's root system, which is best done in early spring or fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring that each new segment has its own roots and shoots. These divisions can then be replanted in well-draining soil at the same depth they were originally growing. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish the roots. This method is effective because it not only rejuvenates older clumps that might be dying out in the center but also helps to maintain the health and vigor of the plant by preventing overcrowding.
