Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’ (Tickseed)

Noted for its dwarf habit, Coreopsis auriculata ‘Nana’ (Lobed Tickseed) is a compact perennial forming a dense, bushy, slowly spreading mat of deep green foliage. Each ovate to lance-shaped leaf features a pair of small lateral lobes, which resemble mouse ears, hence the common name. Blooming profusely from early spring to early summer, brilliant golden-yellow flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm), rise well above the foliage. Removing spent flowers regularly will encourage blooming to continue throughout the summer into fall. Tolerant of summer heat and humidity, this Coreopsis is perfect for border fronts and edging.

• Grows up to 6-9 in. tall and wide (15-22 cm). In optimum growing conditions, this stoloniferous perennial will slowly spread by underground runners to form an attractive planting, up to 2 ft. wide (60 cm) in a year, but spread is easy to check.
• Prefers full sun and enjoys medium moisture, well-drained soils. Plants tolerate humidity and some dry conditions, but are not as drought tolerant as some other species of Coreopsis.
• Easy to grow, this Coreopsis is a favorite of butterflies but is ignored by deer.
• It is a welcomed addition to border fronts, naturalized areas or cottage gardens. Best in groups or massed.
• Deadheading of spent flowers will promote new blooms, although this can be tedious. Midsummer shearing (after the first flush of flowers) should help tidy up the plant and promote a fall rebloom.
• Native to the southeastern U.S. from Virginia to Florida and Mississippi.