Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Coreopsis 'Red Elf'
Red Elf Dwarf Tickseed
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Height
- 8 to 12 inches
- Width
- 12 to 18 inches
- Flower color
- Deep burgundy red with bright golden-yellow centers; petals may have frosty white tips in summer heat
- Foliage color
- Fresh green, finely cut leaves
- Bloom time
- Early summer through fall
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; deadheading not necessary due to sterile flowers; may shear mid-summer to promote fall rebloom
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and butterflies; deer-resistant
About this plant
Coreopsis 'Red Elf' is a compact perennial that blooms from early summer into fall. Part of the Li'l Bang™ series, it was bred for its vibrant color and extended flowering period. The deep red, daisy-like flowers have a bright golden-yellow ring at the center, adding a bold contrast to the rich petals.
The plant forms a neat, mounded habit with bright green foliage that provides a lush backdrop for the vivid blooms. 'Red Elf' not only adds long-lasting color to garden beds and containers but also attracts bees and butterflies, supporting pollinators throughout the growing season.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rock Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Bearded irises · Bee balm · Yarrow · Ornamental grasses · Garden phlox · Black-eyed Susans
Design tip
Fall bloom is its strength, and it earns a place near a path or seating area used late in the year. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Center for Urban Horticulture.
