Origin
Coreopsis hamiltonii (Elmer) H.K. Sharsmith, commonly known as Hamilton's tickseed, is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. This plant is endemic to the Philippines, specifically found in the Luzon Island.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Hamilton's tickseed due to its discoverer, Charles Hamilton, an American botanist, and collector. Other common names include dwarf coreopsis and Hamilton's dwarf tickseed.
Uses
Coreopsis hamiltonii has no known medicinal uses. However, it is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive yellow flowers. It can be used as a ground cover or in rock gardens, and it is drought tolerant, making it easy to care for. Additionally, this plant is suitable for container gardening.
General Appearance
Coreopsis hamiltonii is a small perennial plant. It grows up to 20 cm tall with a spread of 30-40 cm. The leaves are alternate, linear, and up to 2 cm long. The plant produces yellow flowers approximately 2 cm in diameter, with numerous ray florets and a yellow center. The flowers bloom from February to April.
Light Requirements
The plant Coreopsis hamiltonii requires full sun exposure to grow properly. It can tolerate a few hours of shade, but too much shade can lead to weak and spindly growth. The plant should be planted in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to the subtropical and tropical regions of Asia, and can tolerate warm temperatures up to 90°F. However, it cannot withstand extreme heat and requires moderate temperatures between 60°F and 80°F for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. It can tolerate various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, the soil must be moist at all times, especially during the growing season.
Cultivation of Coreopsis hamiltonii
Coreopsis hamiltonii, also known as Hamilton's tickseed, is a perennial plant that belongs to the sunflower family. It is native to the southwestern United States, particularly Arizona and New Mexico. You can cultivate the plant by purchasing seeds or transplants from nurseries.
Coreopsis hamiltonii prefers well-draining soil with a pH level of around 6.0-7.0. The plant grows well in full sun and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. You can space the plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow room for growth.
Watering Needs
Coreopsis hamiltonii requires regular watering, especially during periods of drought. The plant prefers moist soil but cannot tolerate waterlogging. Water the plant deeply about once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions, to ensure the roots receive enough moisture. You can reduce the frequency of watering during the plant's dormant period.
Fertilization
You can feed Coreopsis hamiltonii with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to support its growth and blooming. Fertilize the plant once or twice a month, following the label's instructions on the amount and frequency. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning
Pruning helps to maintain the plant's shape, promote branching, and remove dead or diseased foliage. You can deadhead the spent flowers by cutting the stem just above the first set of leaves. This process encourages the plant to produce more blooms and prevents the formation of seeds, which can reduce blooming. You can also prune the plant in the fall by cutting back the stems to about 2-3 inches above the soil level. This process helps to prevent fungal diseases and promotes healthy growth in the next season.
Propagation of Coreopsis hamiltonii (Elmer) H.K. Sharsmith
Coreopsis hamiltonii (Elmer) H.K. Sharsmith, commonly known as Hamilton's Tickseed, is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is endemic to California and can be found growing in sandy soils and open habitats in the Central Valley and Sierra foothills.
Propagation Methods
Coreopsis hamiltonii can be propagated through seeds and divisions. Both methods have proven to be successful in establishing new plants.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Coreopsis hamiltonii can be collected in late summer or early fall when the seed heads have turned brown. Once collected, the seeds should be stored in a dry place until spring. In spring, the seeds can be sown directly in the garden or started indoors and then transplanted outside after the danger of frost has passed.
Before sowing the seeds, the soil should be loosened and moistened. The seeds should be sown on the surface of the soil and lightly covered with a thin layer of soil. After sowing, the soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate.
Propagation by Division
Coreopsis hamiltonii can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in early spring before new growth begins or in fall after the plant has finished flowering. To propagate by division, the plant should be dug up and the root mass should be gently separated into smaller sections.
The new divisions should be planted in a prepared bed with well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist until new growth appears, at which point normal watering practices can be resumed.
Overall, propagation of Coreopsis hamiltonii is relatively easy and can be accomplished through either seed or division methods.
Disease Management for Coreopsis hamiltonii (Elmer) H.K. Sharsmith
Disease management is crucial for the growth and development of Coreopsis hamiltonii (Elmer) H.K. Sharsmith. Common diseases which are known to affect this plant include Powdery Mildew, Septoria Leaf Spot, and Rhizoctonia Root Rot.
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by the presence of white powdery growth on the plant surface. To manage this disease, one can prune the affected parts of the plant and ensure adequate ventilation and spacing between plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Septoria Leaf Spot: This fungal disease affects the leaves of the plant and can cause yellowing and spotting of leaves. To manage this disease, one can use fungicides like copper-based sprays and apply them thoroughly to the affected parts of the plant.
Rhizoctonia Root Rot: This fungal disease affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot leading to stunted growth and wilting of the plant. To manage this disease, one can apply fungicides like benomyl to the affected plant and ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Pest Management for Coreopsis hamiltonii (Elmer) H.K. Sharsmith
Pest management is crucial for the growth and development of Coreopsis hamiltonii (Elmer) H.K. Sharsmith. Common pests which are known to affect this plant include Aphids, Spider mites, and Whiteflies.
Aphids: These tiny insects can cause wilting and distortion of plant parts. To manage this pest, one can introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings or use insecticidal soaps to control their population.
Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing and curling of leaves and can be identified by the presence of fine webbing on the leaves. To manage this pest, one can use miticides and ensure adequate watering and humid conditions to prevent their spread.
Whiteflies: These pests can cause yellowing and stunting of plant parts and can be identified by the presence of white powdery growth on the underside of leaves. To manage this pest, one can use sticky traps and introduce natural predators like ladybugs to control their population.
