Coreopsis verticillata Zagreb

The 'Zagreb' Coreopsis is a cultivar of coreopsis that combines many qualities. Remarkably floriferous, it is also particularly drought-resistant. The plant is compact, well-branched, and has abundant finely cut dark green foliage. Very hardy in well-drained soil, this perennial thrives in full sun and is superb in borders, rockeries, sun-drenched borders, flowering pots, and bouquets.

The 'Zagreb' Coreopsis belongs to the Asteraceae family. Its wild ancestor, the coreopsis, is native to the plains of Central America, Mexico, and the southeastern United States. 'Zagreb' is a recent cultivar selected for its compact habit, generous flowering, and tolerance to dry soils. This rhizomatous herbaceous perennial with a woody base has a dense, slightly spreading, highly branched habit. It reaches 35 cm (14in) in height with a spread of 25-30 cm (10-12in). Flowering begins in June and continues until September. The golden yellow 3.5 cm (1in) wide flower heads bloom from rounded buds and are arranged in whorls of 3 along the slender stems. The dark green, glossy foliage is composed of 6 cm (2in) long leaves, finely divided into linear leaflets. The plant spreads slowly through a network of slender, non-trailing rhizomes. The foliage is deciduous and absent in winter.

The 'Zagreb' Coreopsis is a simple and charming perennial that can be used in multiple ways. It will thrive in a rockery, on a difficult slope with carnations, Damask wallflowers, and wild flax, in an herbaceous border alongside lavenders and snapdragons. In a pot or container, this plant blooms continuously from the first year. For a beautiful summer display, it can be paired with Calamintha glandulosa and Nepeta 'Dawn to Dusk'both in the ground and in large pots, with minimal watering. It is also a lovely flower for summer bouquets, bringing a taste of sunshine indoors.