Tall Coreopsis

Tall Coreopsis

Ozaawashko-bag
Coreopsis tripteris

Tall Coreopsis – The Prairie Tower

Tall Coreopsis is perhaps the most dramatic of the Coreopsis species. This striking tallgrass prairie native can reach impressive heights, sending up strong upright stems topped with airy clusters of small bright yellow flowers in late summer. The delicate blooms float above surrounding grasses, bringing light and movement to prairie landscapes. As autumn arrives, the foliage often takes on beautiful crimson tones, extending the season of interest well into fall.

This species is a classic companion plant for native prairie grasses such as Sorghastrum nutans (Indian Grass), Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass), and Andropogon gerardii (Big Bluestem). Together these plants recreate the layered structure of Ontario’s historic tallgrass prairies and savannas.

Ecologically, Tall Coreopsis is a valuable late-season nectar and pollen source. Its flowers attract a wide range of native bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. As the seed heads mature they also provide food for songbirds, making it an important contributor to prairie biodiversity. The long stems and bright blooms also make it an excellent native cut flower for natural arrangements.

Within traditional knowledge, plants producing bright yellow flowers were often recognized by the Anishinaabe as valuable medicines and dyes, and prairie species like this were respected parts of the wider plant communities that supported both people and wildlife.

Larval host for
• Wavy Lined Emerald Moth (Synchlora aerata)
• Camouflaged Looper (Synchlora aerata complex – larvae feed on Aster family plants including Coreopsis)

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive 🌱
Origin Native Plants 🌱

3.5 inch Pots