Red Elf Tickseed
Coreopsis tinctoria 'Red Elf'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
10 inches
Width
15 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
A compact and brightly colored perennial with fern-like leaves. The 'Red Elf' cultivar features striking red blooms, which distinguish it from other Coreopsis tinctoria varieties.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain soil moisture and promote rooting.
- Water deeply once a week during dry periods to encourage healthy growth.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to support vibrant flowering.
- Divide plants every 2-3 years in early spring to rejuvenate.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for optimal flowering and health.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune back after flowering to encourage bushier growth
- Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer for best blooms
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot ❌
- Don’t disturb the root zone during the blooming period
- Refrain from using high nitrogen fertilizers that promote foliage over flowers
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red Elf Tickseed questions
What zones can Red Elf Tickseed grow in?
Red Elf Tickseed is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Elf Tickseed deer resistant?
Yes — Red Elf Tickseed is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Elf Tickseed bloom?
Red Elf Tickseed typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red Elf Tickseed need full sun?
Red Elf Tickseed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Red Elf Tickseed drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Elf Tickseed handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Coreopsis to compare
Plains Coreopsis
Coreopsis tinctoria 'Desert Coral'
Sassy Saffron Tickseed
Coreopsis grandiflora 'Sassy Saffron'
Tickseed 'Sweet Tart'
Coreopsis tinctoria 'Sweet Tart'
Enchanted Eve Li'l Bang Tickseed
Coreopsis grandiflora 'Enchanted Eve Li'l Bang'
Prairie Coreopsis
Coreopsis palmata
Moonbeam Tickseed
Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Red Elf Tickseed with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
