Big Flats in Myakka River State Park in May is the best and most memorable local display of Coreopsis.
Introduction
Florida’s landscape is adorned with a myriad of vibrant plants, each contributing to the state’s rich biodiversity. Among these botanical treasures, the coreopsis stands out as a symbol of Florida’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Known commonly as tickseed, the coreopsis genus includes over 75 species, many of which are native to North America. This article explores the natural history of Florida’s coreopsis and delves into its cultural significance, offering a thoughtful perspective on this radiant wildflower.
Natural History of Coreopsis
Description and Varieties
Coreopsis species are renowned for their bright, daisy-like flowers that come in various shades of yellow, orange, pink, and red. The plants typically range from 1 to 3 feet in height and have slender, branching stems with opposite leaves. The flowers, which bloom profusely from spring to fall, attract a multitude of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
In Florida, several coreopsis species are prevalent, with Coreopsis leavenworthii being the state’s designated wildflower. This species, also known as Leavenworth’s tickseed, features vibrant yellow flowers with dark centers, creating a striking contrast against the plant’s green foliage.
Habitat and Distribution
Coreopsis thrives in a variety of habitats, from sandy soils and open fields to roadsides and disturbed areas. In Florida, these hardy plants are particularly well-suited to the state’s warm, humid climate and can often be found in natural pinelands, prairies, and coastal dunes. Their adaptability allows them to flourish in both dry and moist conditions, making them a resilient component of Florida’s flora.
Reproduction and Growth
The reproductive strategy of coreopsis is primarily through seed production. The flowers produce abundant seeds that are easily dispersed by wind and animals, facilitating the spread of the plants across suitable habitats. Additionally, coreopsis can propagate vegetatively, forming new plants from root segments or stem cuttings.
The growth cycle of coreopsis begins with seed germination in early spring, followed by rapid vegetative growth and flowering. The plants continue to bloom throughout the summer and into the fall, providing a continuous display of color and a steady source of nectar and pollen for pollinators.
Ecological Role
Coreopsis plays a vital role in the ecosystems where it is found. As a native wildflower, it provides essential resources for pollinators, contributing to the health and diversity of these populations. The plants also offer habitat and food for various wildlife species, including birds that feed on the seeds.
Moreover, coreopsis helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion, particularly in areas prone to disturbance. Their deep root systems bind the soil, reducing runoff and promoting water infiltration. This ecological service is especially important in Florida’s coastal and sandy environments, where erosion can be a significant concern.
Cultural Significance
Historical Uses and Symbolism
Coreopsis has long been appreciated by indigenous peoples and early settlers for its beauty and utility. Native American tribes used the plant for medicinal purposes, brewing teas from its leaves and flowers to treat ailments such as fever and diarrhea. The vibrant flowers were also used in traditional dyes and decorative arts.
In modern times, coreopsis has come to symbolize cheerfulness and resilience. Its bright, sunny blooms are often associated with optimism and the joy of summer, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.
State Wildflower Designation
In 1991, Coreopsis was designated as Florida’s official state wildflower. This designation reflects the flower’s prominence in the state’s natural landscape and its cultural importance. The selection of coreopsis as the state wildflower highlights the value of preserving Florida’s native plant species and promoting awareness of their ecological and aesthetic contributions.
Landscaping and Horticulture
Coreopsis is a beloved plant among gardeners and landscapers for its ease of cultivation and vibrant display. Its low maintenance requirements and adaptability to various soil types make it an ideal choice for both private gardens and public spaces. The plant’s long blooming season ensures a continuous splash of color, enhancing the visual appeal of any landscape.
In addition to its ornamental value, coreopsis is also used in ecological restoration projects. Its ability to thrive in disturbed areas makes it an excellent candidate for re-vegetating degraded lands and supporting pollinator habitats.
Conservation Efforts
While coreopsis is generally not considered at risk, the preservation of native habitats is crucial for its continued abundance. Urban development, agricultural expansion, and invasive species pose significant threats to the natural environments where coreopsis thrives. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring these habitats, promoting the use of native plants in landscaping, and raising public awareness about the importance of biodiversity.
Organizations and initiatives dedicated to native plant conservation play a key role in safeguarding coreopsis populations. By advocating for the protection of natural areas and supporting research on native plant ecology, these groups help ensure that coreopsis and other native species can continue to flourish.
Coreopsis in the Eyes of a Naturalist
As a naturalist, the sight of coreopsis blooming in the wild is a testament to the resilience and beauty of nature. Each flower represents the intricate web of life that sustains Florida’s ecosystems. Observing coreopsis in its natural habitat offers a glimpse into the dynamic interactions between plants, pollinators, and the environment.
The coreopsis, with its cheerful blossoms, serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving native flora. Its presence in a landscape signifies a healthy, balanced ecosystem, where native species can thrive alongside human development. For naturalists and conservationists, promoting the growth and protection of coreopsis is a way to celebrate and sustain the natural heritage of Florida.
Conclusion
Florida’s coreopsis is more than just a beautiful wildflower; it is a symbol of the state’s rich natural heritage and a testament to the resilience of native plant species. Its bright blooms and ecological significance make it a cherished component of Florida’s landscapes, both natural and cultivated. By understanding and appreciating the natural history and cultural importance of coreopsis, we can better appreciate the delicate balance of Florida’s ecosystems and the vital role that native plants play in maintaining this balance.
Through the lens of a thoughtful naturalist, the coreopsis stands as a beacon of hope and joy, reminding us of the enduring beauty and complexity of the natural world. Whether encountered in the wild or in a cultivated garden, coreopsis continues to inspire and uplift, offering a glimpse of the vibrant life that thrives in the heart of Florida.
Coreopsis
Coreopsis (/ˌkɒriːˈɒpsɪs/[2]) is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. Common names include calliopsis and tickseed, a name shared with various other plants.
Description
These plants range from 46–120 centimetres (18–47 inches) in height. The flowers are usually yellow with a toothed tip, but may also be yellow-and-red bicolor.[3] They have showy flower heads with involucral bracts in two distinct series of eight each, the outer being commonly connate at the base. The flat fruits are small and dry and look like insects.
There are 75–80 species of Coreopsis, all of which are native to North, Central, and South America. The name Coreopsis is derived from the Ancient Greek words κόρις (transl. grc – transl. koris), meaning "bedbug", and ὄψις (transl. grc – transl. opsis), meaning "view", referring to the shape of the achene.[4][5]
Taxonomy
Coreopsis is a variable genus closely related to Bidens. In fact, neither Coreopsis nor Bidens, as defined in the 20th century, is strictly monophyletic. Coreopsis is best described as paraphyletic. Previously (1936), Coreopsis was classified into 11 sections and 114 species, but the African species were subsequently reclassified as Bidens, leaving the North and South American species, some 75–80 in all, under Coreopsis. 45 species are in the 11 North American sections, and the remaining 35 are in the South American section Pseudoagarista. The North American species fall into two broad groups, with 5 sections and 12 species in Mexico and North America and the remaining 5 sections and 26 species in Eastern North America.[4]
One group which does seem to be monophyletic consists of temperate species from North America, including five sections of Coreopsis, Bidens coronata and Bidens tripartita, and the genus Thelesperma (five species).[6]
Classification
Sections
One classification (GRIN) of the genus consists of eleven sections,[1] shown by cladistic relationships with number of species in parentheses.[4]
- Coreopsis sect. Pseudoagarista (35)
Selected species
Section Anathysana
- Coreopsis cyclocarpa S.F.Blake
Section Calliopsis
- Coreopsis bicolor
- Coreopsis leavenworthii Torr. & A.Gray – Leavenworth's tickseed
- Coreopsis paludosa M.E.Jones
- Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt. – plains coreopsis
Section Coreopsis
- Coreopsis auriculata L. – lobed tickseed
- Coreopsis bakeri E.E.Schill.
- Coreopsis basalis (A.Dietr.) S.F.Blake – goldenmane tickseed
- Coreopsis grandiflora Hogg ex Sweet – large-flowered tickseed
- Coreopsis intermedia Sherff – goldenwave tickseed
- Coreopsis lanceolata L. – lance coreopsis, lance-leaf tickseed
- Coreopsis nuecensis A.Heller – crown tickseed
- Coreopsis nuecensoides E.B.Sm. – Rio Grande tickseed
- Coreopsis pubescens Elliott – star tickseed
- Coreopsis wrightii (A.Gray) H.M.Parker – rock tickseed
Section Electra
- Coreopsis cuneifolia Greenm.
- Coreopsis mexicana
- Coreopsis mutica DC.
Section Eublepharis
- Coreopsis floridana E.B.Sm. – Florida tickseed
- Coreopsis gladiata Walter – coastalplain tickseed
- Coreopsis integrifolia Poir. – fringeleaf tickseed
- Coreopsis linifolia Nutt. – Texas tickseed
- Coreopsis nudata Nutt. – Georgia tickseed
- Coreopsis palustris Sorrie – swamp tickseed
- Coreopsis rosea Nutt. – pink tickseed
Section Gyrophyllum (syn. Palmatae)
- Coreopsis delphiniifolia Lam. – larkspurleaf tickseed
- Coreopsis major Walter – greater tickseed
- Coreopsis palmata Nutt. – stiff tickseed
- Coreopsis pulchra F.E.Boynton – woodland tickseed
- Coreopsis tripteris L. – tall tickseed
- Coreopsis verticillata L. – whorled tickseed
Section Leptosyne
- Coreopsis douglasii (DC.) H.M.Hall – Douglas's tickseed
- Coreopsis californica (Nutt.) H.Sharsm. – California tickseed
- Coreopsis stillmanii (A.Gray) S.F.Blake – Stillman's tickseed
Section Pseudoagarista
South America, 35 species
- Coreopsis mcvaughii D.J.Crawford
- Coreopsis petrophila A.Gray
- Coreopsis petrophiloides B.L.Rob. & Greenm.
- Coreopsis rudis (Benth.) Hemsl.
- Coreopsis spectabilis A.Gray[9]
Section Pugiopappus
- Coreopsis bigelovii (A.Gray) Voss – Bigelow's tickseed
- Coreopsis calliopsidea (DC.) A.Gray – leafstem tickseed
- Coreopsis hamiltonii (Elmer) H. Sharsm. – Mount Hamilton tickseed
Section Silphidium
- Coreopsis latifolia Michx. – broadleaf tickseed
Section Tuckermannia
- Coreopsis gigantea (Kellogg) H.M.Hall – giant coreopsis
- Coreopsis maritima (Nutt.) Hook.f. – sea dahlia
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Distribution and habitat
North American Coreopsis can be found in two habitats in the wild, growing along roadsides and open fields throughout the Eastern United States and Canada. In this environment the plant will self-sow.
Ecology
Coreopsis species are a source of nectar and pollen for insects.[3] The species is known to provide food to caterpillars of some Lepidoptera species, including Coleophora acamtopappi.
Cultivation
Coreopsis can grow in a garden as a border plant, or in a container, preferring well-drained soil. Deadheading the flowers ensures it does not become weedy. Using the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) hardiness zones will identify what soil and climate is preferred for different cultivars or species.[10] Notable species found in cultivation are C. grandiflora and C. verticillata, as well as their various cultivars.
The sunny, summer-blooming, daisy-like flowers are popularly planted in gardens to attract butterflies. Both annual and perennial types are grown in the home garden (USDA hardiness zone 7a/6b).[3] In the Mid-Atlantic region, insects such as bees, hover flies, and wasps are often observed visiting the flowers.[3]
Culture
All Coreopsis species were designated the state wildflower of the U.S. state of Florida in 1991.[11] In the language of flowers, Coreopsis means to be always cheerful, while Coreopsis arkansa in particular stands for love at first sight.[12]
References
- ^ a b "Genus: Coreopsis L." Germplasm Resources Information Network. United States Department of Agriculture. January 6, 2011. Archived from the original on June 29, 2011. Retrieved February 9, 2011.
- ^ Sunset Western Garden Book, 1995:606–607
- ^ a b c d "Coreopsis For the Mid-Atlantic Region Research Report". December 2015. Retrieved 27 January 2017.
- ^ a b c Kim, Seung-Chul; Daniel J. Crawford; Mesfin Tadesse; Mary Berbee; Fred R. Ganders; Mona Pirseyedi; Elizabeth J. Esselman (July–September 1999). "ITS sequences and phylogenetic relationships in Bidens and Coreopsis (Asteraceae)". Systematic Botany. 24 (3): 480–493. doi:10.2307/2419701. JSTOR 2419701.
- ^ Quattrocchi, Umberto (2000). CRC World Dictionary of Plant Names: A-C. CRC Press. p. 615. ISBN 978-0-8493-2675-2.
- ^ Crawford, D. J.; Mort, M. E. (2005). "Phylogeny of Eastern North American Coreopsis (Asteraceae-Coreopsideae): insights from nuclear and plastid sequences, and comments on character evolution". American Journal of Botany. 92 (2): 330–6. doi:10.3732/ajb.92.2.330. PMID 21652409.
- ^ a b "Species Records of Coreopsis". Germplasm Resources Information Network. United States Department of Agriculture. Archived from the original on January 20, 2009. Retrieved February 9, 2011.
- ^ "Coreopsis". Integrated Taxonomic Information System. Retrieved June 6, 2010.
- ^ "Coreopsis spectabilis". www.ipni.org. International Plant Names Index. Retrieved 14 April 2024.
- ^ "tickseed". USDA plants website. USDA NRCS National Plant Data Team. Retrieved 27 January 2017.
- ^ Main, Martin B.; Ginger M. Allen. "Florida State Symbols". Electronic Data Information Source. University of Florida IFAS Extension. Retrieved February 9, 2011.
- ^ "Language of Flowers - Flower Meanings, Flower Sentiments". www.languageofflowers.com. Archived from the original on 2016-11-24. Retrieved 2016-11-26.
External links
- Flora of North America: Coreopsis
Data related to Coreopsis at Wikispecies
Media related to Coreopsis at Wikimedia Commons
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