Tickseed

Tickseed

Coreopsis lanceolata

Common Name:

Tickseed

Scientific Name:

Coreopsis lanceolata


Alternative common names:

Lance-leaved coreopsis

Description:

This plant is a clump-forming perennial herb with short rhizomes. Leaves may or may not be hairy; basal leaves are divided and the upper leaves are entire and oval-shaped. The flower heads are borne singularly or in small groups on upright stems from April to June. They are 5.08 cm in length and yellow with a yellow center. The seed are dark brown, winged, and curved to almost semi-circular.

Additional Information


Where does this species come from?

South America (Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil)

What is its invasive status in South Africa?

NEMBA Category 1b

Where in South Africa is it a problem?

Cape Town, KwaZulu Natal

How does it spread?

By seeds, roots and birds

Why is it a problem?

Competes with and replaces indigenous species. Poisonous to livestock.

What does it look like?

Leaves: Light or dark green, mainly along the distal ends of branches; narrowly lanceolata up to 15-25 mm wide

Flowers: Greenish-yellow in axillary and terminal clusters

Fruit/seeds: Berries 10 mm long, green turning purple-black

Does the plant have any uses?

Ornament, hedging

Leave a Reply