Coreopsis 'Sterntaler'

Coreopsis 'Sterntaler': A Golden Bloom with a Warmhearted Gaze

With its sunlit yellow petals and rich maroon centers, Coreopsis 'Sterntaler' brings a charming, classic contrast to the summer garden. Translating to “Star Money,” this cultivar lives up to its name with flowers that shine like little coins of sunshine. Blooming steadily from early summer into autumn, its cheerful daisy-like blooms hover above a compact mound of fresh green foliage. Carefree, long-flowering, and beloved by pollinators, 'Sterntaler' is a radiant addition to sunny borders, wildflower plantings, or cottage-style gardens.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 40–50 cm
• Spread: 30–40 cm, forming a bushy, upright mound
• Flower Colour: Bright yellow petals with a deep maroon-red center
• Flowering Period: Early summer to early fall
• Foliage: Narrow, lance-shaped green leaves with a clean, tidy appearance
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, average to sandy soils; drought tolerant once established

Uses and Benefits: Coreopsis 'Sterntaler' is ideal for brightening perennial borders, edging pathways, or filling containers with golden cheer. Its tidy form and long bloom time make it suitable for both formal and informal designs, while its nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. A great choice for water-wise landscapes or pollinator-friendly gardens, it thrives with minimal care and brings a classic, sun-drenched charm wherever it's planted.

Companion Plants: Surround Coreopsis 'Sterntaler' with Salvia 'Caradonna'—its rich indigo flower spikes provide a bold contrast to the yellow blooms and draw pollinators in harmony. Add Panicum 'Prairie Sky' for upright movement and soft, steely blue foliage that plays beautifully against Sterntaler’s warm tones. At ground level, tuck in Sedum 'Voodoo', whose bronze-red leaves and rosy blooms echo the maroon centers while thriving in the same hot, dry conditions.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Water regularly during establishment; afterward, only during extended dry periods. Deadhead to encourage repeat flowering or shear lightly midseason to rejuvenate. Cut back in late fall or early spring. Divide clumps every 3–4 years to maintain health and vigor.

History: Coreopsis 'Sterntaler' is a selection of Coreopsis grandiflora, a North American native prized for its floriferous nature and adaptability. Named after a German fairy tale about stars turning into gold coins, this cultivar brings a storybook glow to the landscape. Its signature bicolour blooms and garden reliability have made it a favourite among gardeners for decades.

Final Thoughts: With its golden petals and dark ruby hearts, Coreopsis 'Sterntaler' is a warm, enduring presence in the summer garden. When paired with the stately form of Panicum 'Prairie Sky', the deep elegance of Salvia 'Caradonna', and the rich textures of Sedum 'Voodoo', it creates a vibrant, layered composition full of colour and movement. A shining star for any sunny garden bed.