Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' – plant photoSource: Wikimedia CommonsHenry G. Gilbert Nursery and Seed Trade Catalog Collection.; Peter Henderson & Co.Public domain

Coreopsis ‘Star Cluster’

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster'
Sunny border, middle of a perennial bed, container, cottage garden, wildlife planting, or cut-flower garden. Yes

Coreopsis ‘Star Cluster’ short overview

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' is a hybrid perennial tickseed from the Big Bang Series, valued for its long season of creamy-white, daisy-like flower heads. Each bloom has a golden center and a purple eye zone that can spread across the petals during cool weather. The compact, well-branched plant suits sunny borders, containers, wildlife gardens, and cut-flower plantings, with reliable outdoor performance in USDA Zones 5–9.

Taxonomy

Taxonomic classification

Plant familyAsteraceae
GenusCoreopsis
Plant groupCoreopsis
Plant typeHerbaceous perennial hybrid cultivar
OriginHorticultural hybrid selected in Massachusetts, United States; derived from controlled breeding involving 'Redshift' and a Coreopsis rosea-complex hybrid.
Accepted scientific nameCoreopsis 'Star Cluster'
Quick overview

Coreopsis ‘Star Cluster’ care guide

Key requirements
LightFull sun
WaterLow to moderate
HardinessHardy to about -20°F
SoilWell-drained sandy, loamy, or clay soil
Size18–24 inches × 18–24 inches
BloomEarly summer through fall
HumidityAverage garden humidity; no special humidity requirement
Soil pHAcidic to alkaline; broad tolerance
Feeding needsLight feeding
Minimum temperatureAbout -20°F when established; site conditions affect survival
USDA zoneUSDA Zones 5–9
Growth rateMedium to vigorous

Light and placement

Give the plant at least 6 hours of direct sun, preferably in an open south- or west-facing bed. Full sun produces the strongest stems and heaviest flowering. In hot climates, light afternoon shade may reduce stress, but too much shade leads to weaker stems, fewer flowers, and a more open habit. Pale growth and stretching suggest insufficient light; scorched foliage suggests drought or excessive reflected heat.

Watering and humidity

Water deeply when the upper inch or two of soil feels dry during the first growing season. Once established, allow the soil to dry somewhat between waterings, since constantly wet roots can decline. Increase frequency during prolonged heat or container culture and reduce watering after autumn dieback. Average outdoor humidity is adequate; extra misting is unnecessary.

Soil and growing medium

Use average, sandy, loamy, or clay soil amended only as needed to improve drainage. The cultivar tolerates a broad pH range, from acidic through alkaline conditions, but performs best where water does not remain around the crown. Avoid excessively rich, soft soil, which can encourage open growth and flopping.

Feeding

Feed sparingly in spring with a light application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a thin layer of finished compost. Avoid heavy nitrogen feeding, which can produce lush, floppy growth and fewer flowers. Do not fertilize drought-stressed or newly transplanted plants until they have resumed active growth.

Growth and habit

Forms a dense, well-branched perennial clump with sturdy stems and a mounded outline. In rich soil or heavy shade, stems may open or flop; a midsummer shear can maintain a compact shape and encourage a later flush. The cultivar is short-lived in some gardens, so division or replacement may occasionally be useful.

Planting

Planting and repotting

Planting timeSpring after severe frost, or early fall where plants can root before winter
Planting depthSet the crown at soil level; do not bury the crown.
Spacing18–24 inches

Plant after the danger of severe frost has passed, setting the crown at soil level. Space plants about 18–24 inches apart. Water consistently during the first growing season while roots establish, then allow the surface to dry slightly between thorough waterings.

Repotting

Repot container plants when the root ball is crowded, preferably in early spring. Move into fresh, well-drained potting mix and a container only modestly larger than the existing one. Avoid burying the crown deeper than it was previously planted.

Practical tasks

Propagation and pruning

Propagation

Propagate vegetatively by terminal or basal stem cuttings in spring, or divide established plants in early spring. Seed is not a dependable way to reproduce the named cultivar; the patent reports no fruit or seed development during evaluation.

Pruning

Deadhead faded flowers to maintain a tidy display and encourage continued bloom. If flowering slows or stems begin to open, shear the plant back by several inches or about half in midsummer. Cut remaining stems to the ground in late fall or early spring.

Seasonal care

Overwintering

Leave a modest layer of mulch over the root zone in cold regions, keeping mulch away from the crown. Avoid soggy winter soil. In Zone 5, reliable snow cover can improve survival, while colder or exposed sites may require extra protection. Container plants are more vulnerable because roots experience lower temperatures than plants in the ground.

Practical use

Uses

Useful in sunny perennial borders, cottage gardens, containers, wildlife plantings, massed displays, and cut-flower arrangements. Its extended bloom period provides ornamental color and floral resources for insects. It is not documented here as an edible or medicinal plant.

Identification and habit

Appearance

The plant has fine-textured, deep-green foliage and densely branched, sturdy stems. Its most distinctive feature is the flower pattern: creamy-white rays overlap around a gold center, with purple eye zones that become more pronounced under cool temperatures. The overall form is neat and mounded rather than sprawling.

Flowering

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Flower colors
Creamy white with purple eye zones and golden centers
Flower form
Overlapping daisy-like flower headsFlower form
ScentUnscented
Flower sizeMedium flower heads

Large, overlapping ray florets form daisy-like flower heads above branched stems. Blooming is heavy and extended, beginning in early summer and continuing until frost in suitable climates. Cooler temperatures can intensify the purple eye zone and suffuse more of the petals with purple.

Ecological relationships

Pollination and visitors

Coreopsis flowers are open, accessible daisy-like heads visited by bees, butterflies, flies, wasps, and beetles. Research on Coreopsis broadly records visits by native bees and other insects, but a specific pollinator species has not been established for 'Star Cluster'.

Plant protection

Diseases and pests

Diseases

Generally low disease pressure has been reported. Reduce risk by providing full sun, good air circulation, and well-drained soil. Remove badly spotted or collapsed foliage and avoid repeated overhead irrigation. The plant patent reports no particular disease susceptibility observed during evaluation.

Pests

Slugs and snails may damage foliage, especially in wet conditions. Spotted cucumber beetles and other occasional insects can chew leaves or flowers. Inspect plants regularly, remove pests by hand where practical, improve air movement, and use proportionate integrated pest management rather than routine broad-spectrum insecticides.

Safety and allergens

Toxicity and pollen

ToxicityNon-toxic to dogs and cats

ASPCA lists Coreopsis species as non-toxic to dogs and cats. As with any ornamental plant, large quantities may still cause mild digestive upset in an individual animal, and plant material should not be deliberately eaten. People with known Asteraceae sensitivity should avoid prolonged skin or respiratory exposure to crushed plant material.

Pollen and allergyLow airborne pollen concern
Typical season
Usually June through October in much of the United States
Pollination / pollen
Insect-carried pollen; limited airborne dispersal

This is an insect-pollinated daisy rather than a wind-pollinated plant, so pollen is generally released near visiting insects instead of being produced in large airborne clouds. Direct allergy data for this named cultivar are limited; sensitive people should still avoid handling large amounts of flowering material if symptoms occur.

Dogs Non-toxic according to ASPCA Coreopsis listing
Cats Non-toxic according to ASPCA Coreopsis listing
Children No specific toxicity concern documented; do not encourage ingestion
Affected plant parts No toxic plant part identified by the cited pet-safety source
Natural environment

Native habitat

The cultivar itself is a garden hybrid rather than a wild population. Its Coreopsis background reflects plants adapted to open, sunny habitats and a wide range of mineral soils, including sandy and clay-based ground. Good drainage, summer warmth, and direct light support the strongest flowering.

Good to know

Interesting fact

The cultivar was selected from a controlled breeding program in Massachusetts. Its parents include 'Redshift' and an unnamed Coreopsis rosea-complex hybrid. Cool temperatures can enlarge the purple eye and spread purple coloration across the petals. The flowers reportedly produce little or no seed, helping support prolonged flowering.

Questions and answers

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

30 questions

The most relevant questions about this plant, with short and direct answers.

🌱Quick care

What is Coreopsis 'Star Cluster'?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' is a herbaceous perennial tickseed in the daisy family, Asteraceae. It forms a mounded clump with fine green foliage and creamy white flowers marked with purple around a golden center.

How much sun does Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' need?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' grows best in full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In very hot climates, light afternoon shade may help reduce stress, but too much shade can cause weak, floppy growth.

How often should I water Coreopsis 'Star Cluster'?

Water Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' regularly while it establishes, then allow the soil to dry somewhat between waterings. Once established, it is drought tolerant, but provide supplemental water during prolonged heat or drought.

Is Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' easy to grow?

Yes, Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' is generally an easy-care perennial when grown in full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid consistently wet conditions, which are more likely to cause problems than moderate dryness.

How big does Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' get?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' typically reaches about 18–24 inches tall and 18–24 inches wide. Plants grown in very rich soil may become taller and need support or midsummer shearing.

🌤️Environment and placement

What USDA hardiness zones are suitable for Coreopsis 'Star Cluster'?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' is commonly listed for USDA Zones 5–9 and is hardy to about -20°F. Winter survival can still vary with drainage, exposure, snow cover, and the severity of local conditions.

What type of soil does Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' prefer?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' tolerates sandy, loamy, or clay soil as long as it drains well. It is not especially fussy about soil pH, but heavy, waterlogged soil should be amended or avoided.

Can Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' grow in clay soil?

Yes, Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' can grow in clay soil if excess water drains away. Improve compacted clay with organic matter and avoid planting where winter or irrigation water remains around the crown.

Is Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' drought tolerant?

Yes, Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' is drought tolerant once established. Water newly planted specimens more consistently, and irrigate mature plants during extended hot, dry periods for better flowering.

Can Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' grow in a container?

Yes, Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' performs well in containers when given full sun and a loose, well-drained potting mix. Containers dry out faster than garden soil, so check moisture more often during summer.

Is Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' good for pollinators?

Yes, the flowers of Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' attract butterflies and other flower-visiting insects. Its long flowering season makes it useful in sunny pollinator borders and mixed perennial plantings.

💧Care and problems

Does Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' need fertilizer?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' usually needs little fertilizer and often blooms well in average soil. If growth is weak, apply a light balanced fertilizer or compost in spring, but avoid excessive nitrogen because it can promote floppy foliage.

Why is my Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' flopping?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' may flop when grown in overly rich soil, heavy shade, or excessive moisture. Shear the plant by about one-quarter to one-half in July, and use a discreet support if necessary.

Should I deadhead Coreopsis 'Star Cluster'?

Deadheading is optional because Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' can continue flowering without it. Removing faded flowers may improve appearance and encourage a tidier, more continuous display.

How do I keep Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' blooming longer?

Keep Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' in full sun, water it during prolonged drought, and remove spent flowers if you want a tidier display. If the plant becomes open or tired after its first flush, midsummer shearing can encourage fresh growth and later blooms.

What pests affect Coreopsis 'Star Cluster'?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' is generally relatively resistant to serious pest problems, although slugs and snails may damage foliage in damp conditions. Deer and rabbits are commonly considered less likely to browse it than many other perennials.

Why are the flowers on my Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' turning purple?

The purple markings on Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' can become more pronounced during cooler weather, especially in early summer or fall. This color development is a characteristic response of the cultivar rather than necessarily a sign of disease.

🪴Planting and repotting

When should I plant Coreopsis 'Star Cluster'?

Plant Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' in spring or early fall when temperatures are moderate. Spring planting allows roots to establish through the growing season, while fall planting should be done early enough for rooting before the ground freezes.

How far apart should I plant Coreopsis 'Star Cluster'?

Space Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' about 18–24 inches apart, depending on the desired density and growing conditions. Allowing adequate airflow helps maintain a neat shape and reduces problems associated with prolonged wet foliage.

How do I plant Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' in the garden?

Set Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' at the same depth as it was growing in its nursery container, then water thoroughly. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil and keep the plant evenly moist until new growth shows it is established.

✂️Propagation and pruning

Can Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' be grown from seed?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' is not a reliable choice for growing true from seed because it is a named hybrid cultivar and may produce little or no viable seed. Division or professionally produced vegetative plants are more dependable for preserving its characteristics.

How do I propagate Coreopsis 'Star Cluster'?

Propagate Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' by division in early spring or by rooted basal cuttings in spring. Because it is a patented cultivar, commercial propagation may be restricted, so check the plant label and applicable U.S. plant-patent terms.

When should I divide Coreopsis 'Star Cluster'?

Divide Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' in early spring as new growth begins, or in early fall where plants have enough time to root before winter. Replant divisions promptly and keep them watered until established.

When should I cut back Coreopsis 'Star Cluster'?

Cut Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' back after flowering or in late winter to early spring as new growth emerges. In colder areas, leaving some stems standing through winter can provide modest crown protection before the final cleanup.

⚠️Toxicity and safety

Is Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' toxic to dogs?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' is considered non-toxic to dogs. Even non-toxic plants can cause mild stomach upset if eaten in large quantities, so contact a veterinarian if your dog shows concerning symptoms.

Is Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' toxic to cats?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' is considered non-toxic to cats. Prevent excessive plant chewing and seek veterinary advice if a cat develops vomiting, lethargy, or other unusual symptoms after eating any plant.

🌸Flowering and special interest

When does Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' bloom?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' generally blooms from early or midsummer into fall, often continuing until frost in suitable conditions. Flowering is strongest with full sun, well-drained soil, and adequate moisture during drought.

What do Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' flowers look like?

The flowers are daisy-like with creamy white petals, a golden center, and purple markings near the bases of the petals. The purple coloration may spread or intensify during cooler weather.

Does Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' bloom the first year?

Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' may bloom in its first year when planted early and given favorable growing conditions, although flowering is often stronger after the plant becomes established. Nursery-grown plants generally have the best chance of producing early blooms.

Is Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' a perennial?

Yes, Coreopsis 'Star Cluster' is a herbaceous perennial in suitable climates. It dies back or becomes dormant in winter and returns from the crown in spring, although individual plants may be relatively short-lived.

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Verifiability

Sources and data reliability

92%; cultivar identity and core horticultural traits are well documented, while exact pollen and visitor intensity for this named hybrid are less directly studied.