Coreopsis rosea is a native North American perennial with rose-pink ray flowers and yellow centers — unusual within a genus dominated by yellow-flowered species. It has a naturally discontinuous range along the eastern US Atlantic seaboard and into Nova Scotia, where it grows at pond edges, streambanks, and in wet sandy or peaty soils.
It spreads steadily by rhizomes, forming low colonies well suited to rain garden margins, bog garden edges, or naturalistic plantings alongside water features. It requires consistently moist to wet, acidic soil and full sun; in heavier clay, alkaline, or seasonally dry conditions it declines. Divide clumps every two to three years to keep growth vigorous. Soil pH around 5.5–6.5 and a sandy or peaty substrate closely mimic its native habitat and produce the most stable stands.
As a regionally rare native, it supports native bees and small pollinators during summer and contributes ecological value in designed wetland plantings that replicate its natural streambank habitat.
Aster Yellows
Deformed, greenish flowers, stunted growth, and yellowed foliage. Flower centers may produce tufts of leafy growth instead of normal petals.
No cure. Remove and destroy infected plants immediately to stop spread. Control leafhoppers, which transmit the disease, and remove nearby weed hosts.
Powdery mildew
White or grey powdery coating on leaves — usually starting on older growth in humid conditions or when nights cool.
Improve air circulation by thinning plants. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate spray at first sign. Avoid overhead watering.
Fungal leaf spot
Brown or purplish spots on the leaves, often ringed with a yellow halo, that spread and merge in warm, humid, or wet weather; heavily spotted leaves yellow and drop early.
Pick off spotted leaves and clear fallen debris to remove overwintering spores. Improve air circulation by thinning, and water at the base so foliage dries quickly. If it persists, apply a copper- or sulfur-based fungicide at the first sign.