Calliopsis
Coreopsis tinctoria
Last reviewed: June 2026
Coreopsis tinctoria is a native annual wildflower found across most US states, blooming from June through September with bright yellow and red flowers. This adaptable forb attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles while tolerating various growing conditions.
Calliopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Calliopsis as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 42 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Calliopsis produces cheerful yellow and red daisy-like flowers from summer through early fall on slender stems. This easy-to-grow annual self-seeds readily and creates naturalized drifts over time. The bright blooms make excellent cut flowers and add vibrant color to any garden setting.
Growing Calliopsis
Grow Calliopsis in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Calliopsis takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Self-seeding can appear uncontrolled
- Annual nature means bare patches in winter
- Wildflower appearance may seem too informal
Wildlife value
The abundant nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles throughout the long blooming season. Seeds provide food for goldfinches and other small birds in late fall.
Common questions
- When does Coreopsis tinctoria bloom?
- Coreopsis tinctoria blooms from June through September, providing nectar for pollinators throughout the summer and early fall months.
- What pollinators visit Coreopsis tinctoria?
- This wildflower attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting diverse pollinator populations in native plant gardens.
- Where is Coreopsis tinctoria native?
- Coreopsis tinctoria is native to most US states, from coast to coast, making it one of the most widely distributed native wildflowers in North America.
- What growing conditions does Coreopsis tinctoria prefer?
- This adaptable forb grows best in full sun with medium water, but can tolerate partial sun and varying moisture levels from dry to wet soils.
- Is Calliopsis toxic to dogs?
- Calliopsis is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Calliopsis toxic to cats?
- Calliopsis is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Calliopsis toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Calliopsis as toxic to livestock.
- Is Calliopsis HOA-friendly?
- Calliopsis takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Calliopsis? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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