How to Grow Coreopsis Nana
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Coreopsis Nana
Coreopsis tinctoria 'Nana'
flowerCoreopsis Nana is a dwarf cultivar of Plains Coreopsis, reaching just 12-18 inches tall with bright golden-yellow flowers often marked with deep red or burgundy centers. This cheerful, long-blooming perennial (often grown as an annual) produces abundant daisy-like flowers from summer through fall. It's an excellent choice for borders, containers, and cutting gardens due to its compact habit and prolific flowering.
When should you plant Coreopsis Nana in your zone?
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Example Coreopsis Nana timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Coreopsis Nana
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Coreopsis Nana blooms
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Coreopsis Nana dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-10; extremely cold and heat tolerant
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny cotyledons emerge with fine, thread-like foliage developing quickly
Keep soil lightly moist; provide bright light; thin seedlings to proper spacing; avoid overwatering
Vegetative
3-4 weeksPlant develops low, mounding growth habit with fine, feathery foliage; small leaves densely arranged
Water moderately; no fertilizer needed for lean soils; pinch back at 6 inches to encourage bushiness if desired
Bud Formation
1-2 weeksFlower buds appear at branch tips; tiny green buds visible among foliage
Reduce watering slightly; maintain full sun exposure; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizer which delays blooming
Flowering
8-12 weeksAbundant 1-1.5 inch daisy-like flowers with golden-yellow petals and dark red/burgundy centers blooming continuously
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous bloom; water only when soil is dry; no fertilizer needed
Seed Set & Decline
4-6 weeksFlowers fade; seed heads develop if deadheading stops; foliage may yellow in late fall
Leave some flowers for self-seeding if desired; cut back frost-damaged foliage after hard freeze
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water; use neem oil for heavy infestations; ensure adequate air circulation
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Spray with insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray undersides of leaves with neem oil
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur or neem oil spray
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryCoreopsis flowers are non-toxic and can be used as colorful garnishes for salads and desserts. They add a mild, slightly sweet flavor to culinary preparations. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdExcellent long-lasting cut flower for bouquets and flower arrangements; lasts 7-10 days in water. Dwarf size makes it perfect for small posy arrangements and containers. [source]
Dried Flowers & Crafts
CraftFlowers dry easily and retain color well, making them ideal for dried arrangements, pressed flowers, and craft projects. Seed heads are also decorative when dried. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeProlific bloomer that attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. The abundant nectar and pollen make it valuable for supporting pollinator populations. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalHistorically used by Native Americans in herbal preparations; traditionally used to create natural dyes. Modern research explores its potential anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest flowers in early morning when fully open for longer vase life; cut stems just above a leaf node; deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering; allow some flowers to remain if you want the plant to self-seed for next season
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The species name 'tinctoria' means 'used for dyeing'—Coreopsis was historically used to create red and yellow dyes by Native Americans and early settlers
- 🌱 Coreopsis Nana is exceptionally heat and drought tolerant and thrives in poor soil conditions, making it perfect for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens
- 🌱 A single plant can produce hundreds of flowers over a growing season, earning it the nickname 'tickseed' from the appearance of its tiny, tick-like seeds
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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