Starlight Tickseed
Coreopsis verticillata 'Starlight'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
15 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Tolerates a range, prefers good air circulation
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Garden origin
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Coreopsis 'Starlight' is a compact, mounding perennial with fine, thread-leaf foliage. It produces a profusion of daisy-like flowers with creamy white petals and a striking central burgundy eye. This cultivar is noted for its exceptionally long bloom period, from early summer until frost, and its sterile flowers mean no deadheading is required to keep it blooming.
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.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during first growing season.
- Thin seedlings to allow space for mature growth, about 12 inches apart.
- Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth in early summer.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds during summer.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for vigorous blooms and healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring for optimal growth
- Provide good airflow to prevent fungal issues
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not disturb roots during peak flowering
- Refrain from using heavy mulch that retains too much moisture
- Avoid excessive fertilization that encourages legginess
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| 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
Starlight Tickseed questions
What zones can Starlight Tickseed grow in?
Starlight Tickseed is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Starlight Tickseed deer resistant?
Yes — Starlight Tickseed is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Starlight Tickseed bloom?
Starlight Tickseed typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Starlight Tickseed need full sun?
Starlight Tickseed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Starlight Tickseed drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Starlight 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
Grow Starlight 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.
