Zagreb Tickseed (Coreopsis verticillata ‘Zagreb’): Low-Maintenance Golden Blooms

Zagreb tickseed meets two key criteria: drought tolerance and deer resistance. Rabbits may nibble early, but plants quickly outgrow damage. This perennial thrives with zero care beyond cutting back spent stems in late fall.

Botanical Name: Coreopsis verticillata ‘Zagreb’
Common Name: Zagreb tickseed
Origin: Threadleaf tickseed native to southeastern U.S.; Zagreb is a garden hybrid
Hardiness: USDA zones 3–9 (hardy to –40°F)
Water Needs: Average to low
Light Requirements: Full sun
Mature Size: 2 feet tall and wide, slowly spreading to larger clumps

Benefits and Tolerances

Attracts butterflies and bees; deer and rabbit resistant (mostly); low maintenance; drought tolerant; tolerates poor soil.

Seasonal Interest

Midsummer to fall.

Distinguishing Traits

Golden-yellow daisies and feathery foliage. Long bloom time without deadheading; spreads less aggressively than species, especially in poor, dry soil. Mass planting creates a sunny yellow haze with gently moving foliage.

Design Uses

Plant in large groups for meadow effect, line pathways, edge borders, or add to large containers as a lower tier under tall cannas or dark-leaved dahlias. Fits cottage gardens beautifully.

Planting Notes

Plant in well-drained soil (average or poor); no special fertilizer or care needed. Deadheading unnecessary; shearing in midsummer can encourage more flowers but not required. By late summer, foliage may flop in rich soil—use twigs in a crisscross pattern to support if edging a path. Divide clumps in early spring or late fall.

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