Golden Tickseed
Coreopsis basalis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Coreopsis basalis (Golden Tickseed) is a native wildflower blooming March through August across the southeastern United States. This drought-tolerant annual attracts butterflies and bees with bright yellow daisy-like flowers.
Golden Tickseed (Coreopsis basalis) 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.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 6 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Golden Tickseed is a cheerful annual wildflower that produces bright yellow daisy-like blooms from spring through summer. This compact native thrives in full sun with minimal water and readily self-seeds to return each year. Its long blooming period and low maintenance needs make it popular for wildflower gardens and naturalized areas.
Growing Golden Tickseed
Grow Golden Tickseed in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Golden Tickseed is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- May flop without support
- Best in less formal zones
Wildlife value
The abundant flowers attract butterflies and native bees throughout the growing season. Seeds provide food for birds like goldfinches and quail.
Common questions
- When does Coreopsis basalis bloom?
- Golden Tickseed blooms from March through August, providing an extended flowering period throughout spring and summer.
- Where is Coreopsis basalis native?
- This wildflower is native to Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Texas.
- What pollinators visit Golden Tickseed?
- Coreopsis basalis attracts butterflies and bees, making it valuable for pollinator gardens and native plant landscapes.
- How much water does Coreopsis basalis need?
- Golden Tickseed is drought-tolerant and thrives with low water requirements once established, though it can tolerate moderate moisture levels.
- Is Golden Tickseed toxic to dogs?
- Golden Tickseed is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Golden Tickseed toxic to cats?
- Golden Tickseed is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Golden Tickseed HOA-friendly?
- Golden Tickseed is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Does Golden Tickseed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.