How to Grow Plains Coreopsis Mahogany Midget
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Plains Coreopsis Mahogany Midget
Coreopsis tinctoria 'Mahogany Midget'
flowerA dwarf cultivar of Plains Coreopsis featuring compact, bushy growth reaching only 12-18 inches tall with vibrant mahogany-red and golden-yellow bicolor flowers. This heat and drought-tolerant annual produces abundant daisy-like blooms from early summer through fall frost, making it ideal for borders, containers, and drought-resistant gardens.
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Example Plains Coreopsis Mahogany Midget timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Plains Coreopsis Mahogany Midget
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 Plains Coreopsis Mahogany Midget blooms
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Plains Coreopsis Mahogany Midget dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-10; performs best in zones 3-9
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Seed to Seedling
10-14 daysTiny seedlings emerge with fine, thread-like foliage. Plants are delicate and very small initially.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once they have true leaves.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksCompact, bushy mounding forms with fine, feathery foliage that remains 12-18 inches tall. Foliage is abundant and finely textured.
Water sparingly; drought conditions promote stronger, more compact growth. Avoid over-fertilizing. Pinch back growing tips when young to encourage bushiness if desired.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (or until frost)Abundant daisy-like flowers appear with mahogany-red petals and golden-yellow centers. Blooms cover the plant profusely.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Water only during prolonged drought. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizer which reduces flowering.
Peak Bloom & Self-Seeding
Continues until fall frostPlant reaches maximum flower production. Seeds develop in spent flower centers if flowers are not all deadheaded.
Allow some flowers to remain if you want self-seeding for next year. Collect seed pods in late summer for controlled seed saving.
End of Season
Until first hard frostPlant declines as temperatures drop and frost approaches. Foliage may turn bronze or burgundy before dying back.
Allow plant to die naturally in cold zones. In mild climates (zones 8-10), plant may persist into winter. Leave dried seed heads for wildlife.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase air circulation; spray with water; use insecticidal soap if severe. Drought-stressed plants are more susceptible.
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Spray with strong water jet; use neem oil or insecticidal soap. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
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Avoid overhead watering; ensure good air circulation. Apply sulfur or baking soda spray if needed. Plant is generally resistant when not stressed.
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Hand-pick in early morning; use pheromone traps away from plants; apply neem oil for heavy infestations.
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryCoreopsis flowers are edible with a slightly peppery, mildly citrus flavor. Petals can be used fresh in salads, as garnish for desserts, or for decorative purposes on plates. [source]
Dried Flowers & Arrangements
CraftFlowers dry beautifully and retain vibrant color, making them excellent for dried flower arrangements, craft projects, and long-lasting decorative displays. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeAbundant flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial pollinators throughout the growing season. Seeds also provide food for birds in fall. [source]
Cut Flowers
HouseholdSmall but prolific flowers make charming fresh cut arrangements that last 7-10 days in water. The delicate appearance adds elegance to small bouquets and table arrangements. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalCoreopsis species have been used in traditional Native American medicine and folk herbalism for various purposes, though modern scientific evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental flower grown for display rather than harvest. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to extend flowering season. For seeds: allow some late-season flowers to dry on the plant in late summer/early fall, then collect seed pods and store in a cool, dry location. Seeds can be sown again next year.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The genus name 'Coreopsis' comes from Greek words meaning 'bug' (koris) and 'appearance' (opsis), referring to the seed's resemblance to a tick or small insect.
- 🌱 'Mahogany Midget' was specifically bred to be a compact, container-friendly version of the larger Plains Coreopsis species, making it ideal for small gardens and mixed borders.
- 🌱 Plains Coreopsis is the state flower of Nebraska and has been used by Native Americans for centuries; the flowers produce a reddish dye when processed, which is reflected in the species name 'tinctoria' (meaning 'used for dyeing').
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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