Botanical Name: Coreopsis grandiflora ‘Early Sunrise’

Common Name: Tickseed

Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Most Climates (USDA Zones 4–9)

Size: 18–24" Tall × 18–24" Wide

Growth Habit: Upright, Clump-Forming Habit

Sunlight: Full Sun (Best Flowering); Tolerates Light Shade

Soil: Prefers Well-Drained Soil; Adapts to Average or Poor Soils

Water Needs: Low to Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established

Bloom Season: Late Spring through Summer (Very Long Bloom Period)

Fertilizer: Minimal; Avoid Heavy Feeding

Features: Semi-Double Golden-Yellow Flowers, Extremely Long Bloom Season, Heat & Drought Tolerant, Deer Resistant, Pollinator Friendly

Uses: Ideal for Perennial Beds, Borders, Pollinator Gardens, Containers, and Cut Flowers

Patent: ❌ Not Patented

Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed

More About Coreopsis ‘Early Sunrise’

Coreopsis ‘Early Sunrise’ is one of the most widely grown and trusted tickseed varieties, prized for its cheerful, golden-yellow blooms and exceptionally long flowering season. The flowers are semi-double, giving them a fuller, softer look than traditional single coreopsis while still retaining that classic daisy-like charm.

Blooming begins earlier than many other coreopsis varieties—often in late spring—and continues steadily through summer. The bright flowers sit above tidy clumps of medium-green foliage, creating a light, airy effect that works beautifully in both formal borders and relaxed cottage-style gardens. This variety thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and performs reliably even in hot, dry conditions.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Early Sunrise’ has been one of the most dependable perennials we grow. It establishes quickly, blooms heavily the first year, and keeps going with very little intervention. Even during stretches of heat and limited rainfall, it continues flowering when many other perennials slow down.

We also appreciate how forgiving it is. It tolerates a wide range of soils, doesn’t require frequent fertilizing, and responds well to simple deadheading. Pollinators flock to it all summer long, while deer typically pass it by. For gardeners who want long-lasting color without fuss, ‘Early Sunrise’ is hard to beat.

Coreopsis ‘Early Sunrise’ vs. Other Coreopsis Varieties

Compared to fully double varieties like ‘Double the Sun,’ ‘Early Sunrise’ has a slightly more natural, classic look with its semi-double flowers and visible central disc. This makes it especially well-suited for pollinator gardens and traditional perennial borders.

When compared to threadleaf coreopsis, ‘Early Sunrise’ offers larger blooms and a more substantial presence in the landscape, though it maintains the same toughness and drought tolerance. Its early start, long bloom window, and proven reliability make it a go-to choice for gardeners seeking dependable, season-long color in sunny spaces.