Coreopsis verticillata ‘Crazy Cayenne’ (Threadleaf Coreopsis)

A showstopper, Coreopsis verticillata ‘Crazy Cayenne’ (Threadleaf Coreopsis) is a compact perennial with a perfectly domed, rounded habit. It produces a profusion of fiery sunset orange flowers, almost 2 in. across (5 cm), adorned with intense red-orange highlights at the center of the petals. Blooming from early to late summer, the blossoms are produced in such great quantities that they literally cover the foliage of finely divided gray-green leaves. Easy to grow, this Threadleaf Coreopsis is perfect for sunny perennial borders, mass plantings, or patio containers. As an added bonus, one plant will provide you with long-lasting cut flower bouquets all summer long.

Crazy Cayenne belongs to the Sizzle & Spice Series, which is noted for its compact, rounded habit and profuse flowers in bright colors from early to late summer.

• Grows up to 15-18 in. tall (37-45 cm) and 22-26 in. wide (55-65 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerates poor soils and is drought tolerant once established.
• Easy to grow, relatively pest and disease free, this Coreopsis is a favorite of bees and butterflies but is ignored by deer.
• Very versatile, it is a welcomed addition to beds and borders, and cottage gardens, and does great in containers. Effective as an accent plant and spectacular in mass plantings.
• 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.

Coreopsis are a favorite of many gardeners thanks to the bright colors of their flowers and their ability to put up with most garden soils. There are over 100 species available and countless hybrids. Most of them are low maintenance, drought tolerant, and enjoy long blooming seasons. Workhorse perennials in the sunny borders, they make excellent cut flowers.