Coreopsis
Coreopsis tinctoria atkinsoniana

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Coreopsis tinctoria atkinsoniana is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Height (m): 0.6

Where it is found

Openings in pine forests on rich moist soils, 1500 - 2250 metres in Arizona.

South-western N. America.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

A beverage is made from the dried plant. It was used instead of coffee.

Drink: not including plant saps, tea or coffee substitutes.

Medicine

Rating: 1

A tea made from the roots is emetic and is also used in the treatment of diarrhoea. An infusion of the whole plant without the root has been used by women desiring a female baby.

Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.

Emetic: Induces vomiting.

Other

Rating: 2

A yellow (red with an acid mordant) dye is obtained from the flowers. It is not very good on plant fibres. The flowers can be dried for later use.

Dye: Plants that provide dyes.

Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife

How it is grown

Succeeds in ordinary garden soil. Prefers a fertile well-drained moisture retentive medium soil. Grows well in sandy soils. Requires a sunny position. Established plants are drought resistant. A good bee plant.

Propagating it: Seed - sow March in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. If you have sufficient seed then it can also be sown in situ outdoors.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Annual

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

C. cardaminaefolia. (DC.)Torr.&Gray.