Coreopsis rosea Nana

The Coreopsis rosea 'Nana' is a variety of pink Coreopsis that is interesting for its compact habit and long-lasting flowering. This small perennial forms a small spreading tuft of delicate, finely cut foliage, adorned with baby pink to pale pink flowers with a buttery yellow centre for months on end. Charming in borders and rock gardens, this plant also adds beauty to floral arrangements on the patio or balcony.

The Coreopsis rosea 'Nana' belongs to the Aster family. It is a dwarf form of Coreopsis rosea, a species native to Central and North America. This 'Nana' cultivar grows to a height of 20-25 cm (8-10in) with a spread of 30-40 cm (12-16in). This rhizomatous perennial with a woody base forms a dense and bushy clump of branching stems from spring onwards. Its delicate, bright green foliage, finely cut and light, gives the plant an airy and decorative appearance. Extremely floriferous, it continuously produces beautiful 2.5 cm (1in) diameter flower heads from May to September-October. Each flower head consists of a collar of pink ligulate flowers surrounding a yellow centre. The flowering is nectar-rich and attracts bees and butterflies. Unlike the species, this Nana variety spreads little in width. The deciduous foliage dries up in late autumn.

This hardy and very easy variety thrives in sunny locations, in fertile to ordinary soil that is moist to wet, but above all well-drained. With its long and abundant pink flowering, this Coreopsis will be a beautiful addition to borders, flower beds, mixed borders, and rock gardens. It will be the perfect companion for many perennial plants, shrub roses, and medium-sized grasses. It can be associated with perennial or shrubby salvias, paniculate phlox, Gaura, Asters, and Knautias. It will also look magnificent when planted in a pot on the terrace, where the spectacle of its flowering will be unmatched! Its flowers will create delightful little country bouquets.