1 / 4

Key characteristics

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

Perennials

Coreopsis 'Red Elf'

Red Elf Dwarf Tickseed

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.

Light

Full sun

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Early summer through fall

Find this plant

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.