Coreopsis Limerock Series, The Surprising History
Life is full of surprises. For example, the Coreopsis Limerock Series hybrids. This new series of Coreopsis’ comes to Rozanne and Friends® from Mary Ann Faria. Mary Ann, with her husband, own and operate Limerock Plant Farm in Rhode Island. Thus, the series name, Limerock. They spotted the parent of this group, ‘Limerock Ruby’, in their garden growing between lime paving stones! ‘Limerock Ruby’ is a chance seedling that was developed from random cross pollination of Coreopsis rosea and Coreopsis verticillata.
‘Limerock Passion’ and ‘Limerock Dream’ are natural mutations. These Limerock Series varieties have an upward branched plant habit and are self-supporting. And therefore, an improvement over lankier, floppier types.
The primary difference among these varieties is their flower color. Families of varieties offer consumers extended choices of flower forms and colors for their garden palette—with plants that have similar culture and use.
Getting to Know the Limerock Series
‘Limerock Dream’ (USPP#16923, EU PBR 25168) flowers start as apricot pink but later flowers are hot orange as weather heats up over summer. Mature height: 16 inches (41 cm); mature spread: 30 inches (76 cm).
‘Limerock Passion’ (USPP#15979, JP16957, PBR) has yellow-centered, lavender-pink flowers. Mature height: 16 inches (41 cm); mature spread: 34 inches (86 cm).
‘Limerock Ruby’ (USPP#15455, CPBR#1597, PBR#11265-UK, JP16956) features true red, yellow-centered flowers. Mature height: 16 inches (41 cm); mature spread: 32 to 36 inches (81 to 91 cm).
All Limerock Series varieties have long blooming periods, from summer through fall. They also sport nice, dark green foliage as a backdrop to the flower display.
The National Garden Bureau has named Coreopsis The 2018 Plant of The Year in the perennial category. Selection criteria are crops that are easy to grow with many varieties from which to choose. The NGB generates substantial publicity for up and coming varieties, therefore their recognition could benefit your sales of these plants. Check the NGB website for more information.
The genus name Coreopsis, translates from Greek to “bug-like”. Similarly, the common name, Tickseed, is given since the seed shape and color resemble ticks.
For Growers
- Typically plant 1 liner per 4-, 6-inch (10, 15 cm) or 1 gallon (4 litre) pots.
- Vernalization is not required.
- Standard media pH: 5.5 to 6.5; standard media EC: 1.5 to 3.0 mmhos/cm (saturated paste).
- Although plants are free branching, pinch/shear plants about 1 week after planting to obtain fuller growth.
- Plants need frequent irrigation once they fill out containers.
- Watch for aphids.
- Long days are required for flowering. Plant late April or May to sell in June and July.
- See our Technical Guide for more information.
In the Garden
- For front garden borders and as container combination plantings.
- Long bloom period, butterfly attracter, flowers for cutting
- Enjoy as a tender perennial; not reliably hardy without protection.
- Grow in full sun.