Coreopsis 'Zagreb'

Coreopsis 'Zagreb': A Golden Thread Woven Through the Summer Garden

Light, airy, and endlessly cheerful, Coreopsis 'Zagreb' offers clouds of bright yellow blooms that dance above finely textured, fern-like foliage. This compact cultivar is known for its exceptional drought tolerance, long bloom time, and softly mounded habit, making it a favorite for naturalistic borders, dry slopes, and pollinator-friendly gardens. From early summer into fall, 'Zagreb' stitches golden light through the landscape with a refined delicacy that belies its rugged resilience.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 30–40 cm
• Spread: 30–45 cm, forming a dense, upright clump
• Flower Colour: Clear golden yellow; small, daisy-like blooms
• Flowering Period: Early summer to early fall
• Foliage: Fine, threadleaf green foliage; feathery and delicate in texture
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, average to sandy soil; thrives in dry conditions once established

Uses and Benefits: Coreopsis 'Zagreb' is ideal for brightening garden edges, weaving into perennial meadows, or softening gravel paths with its golden tones and feathery form. Its long bloom period and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent choice for large groupings or mixed plantings where consistent colour is desired. Pollinators are frequent visitors, and its drought-hardy nature ensures dependable performance even in challenging sites. Whether used as a groundcover or accent, 'Zagreb' brings structure and seasonal charm with grace.

Companion Plants: Pair Coreopsis 'Zagreb' with Salvia 'East Friesland', whose violet flower spikes create a striking contrast against the golden blooms while attracting bees and butterflies. Introduce Panicum 'Prairie Sky' for soft, upright movement and silvery blue-green blades that cool the palette and complement the fine texture of Zagreb. At the front of the border, add Sedum 'Angelina', whose chartreuse, trailing foliage enhances the yellow blooms and thrives in the same dry, sun-soaked conditions.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, 'Zagreb' is highly drought tolerant and thrives in lean, sandy soils. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming or shear lightly in midsummer for a clean flush of new growth. Cut back in fall or early spring. Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor and density.

History: A compact selection of Coreopsis verticillata, 'Zagreb' originates from eastern North American prairies and meadows. It was named after the capital of Croatia, a nod to its refined beauty and widely admired performance in European and American gardens alike. Its enduring popularity stems from its combination of delicate appearance and tough garden resilience.

Final Thoughts: With its soft texture, brilliant colour, and carefree nature, Coreopsis 'Zagreb' is a garden staple that offers months of golden delight. Planted alongside the rich tones of Salvia 'East Friesland', the graceful height of Panicum 'Prairie Sky', and the luminous foliage of Sedum 'Angelina', it becomes part of a radiant, low-maintenance planting that celebrates summer’s simple joys. A timeless choice for sunny, sustainable gardens.