Humble Tickseed has never been so well-dressed! 'Presto' is a new double-flowered cultivar with brilliant golden blooms that begin before spring has passed and often continue into autumn. Large and very showy, they cover this super-compact plant, which is just as easy to grow and adaptable to differing climates as its plain-jane cousins.
Each bloom measures 2 to 2 1/2 inches wide, with a small golden-red center and frizzled, serrated petals that stand out beautifully. They appear profusely on dwarf plants with foliage just 6 to 8 inches high and wide, and are eye-catching in any setting! A large planting in the sunny border or open meadow garden is entrancing, but even in smaller plantings, 'Presto' stands out.
Although these blooms are far more elegant than those of most other Coreopsis, 'Presto' is just as easy to grow and adaptable to diverse conditions. Unpalatable to deer and tolerant of drought, this native plant withstands unseasonable heat, humidity, and even cold without dropping a leaf. It thrives in poor dry soils as well as moist enriched ones, and sets new buds continuously, especially when the flowers are cut or deadheaded promptly.
Combine 'Presto' with other Coreopses such as 'Moonbeam' and 'Snowberry', as well with other sun-loving, adaptable perennials such as Echinacea and Salvia. It is a nearly effortless way to create long seasons of color in any sunny spot! Zones 4-9.
