The image is "COREOPSIS" by Ayano Ichinoki.
The art piece "COREOPSIS" has been very well received since its release at our store.
In fact, this season is when the plant that served as the model for it is in full bloom.
In this column, we will introduce the charm of "Coreopsis," a beautiful flower that heals and energizes you just by looking at it.
The characteristics and appeal of Coleopsis
Coreopsis is a perennial plant in the Asteraceae family, characterized by its vibrant yellow and orange flowers. Known in Japanese as "Harushagiku" (波斯菊) or "Kin'kei-giku" (金鶏菊), its light and graceful swaying in the wind adds color to summer gardens and parks.
Also, the flower language includes "memories of summer," "good mood," and "cheerful," which is said to come from the bright colors and cheerful atmosphere of the flowers blooming in the sunlight.
History and Origin
The scientific name comes from the Greek words "koris" (insect) and "opsis" (resembling), and it is said that the name was given because the shape of the seeds is somewhat similar to that of a bug. Its origin is North America, and it spread to Europe in the 18th century as an ornamental plant. It arrived in Japan at the end of the Edo period, and now wild specimens can also be seen.
Incidentally, there are records indicating that Native Americans dried Coreopsis flowers and brewed them like tea. In particular, the species *Coreopsis tinctoria* was known for its slightly sweet flavor and bright, almost sun-like color, and was cherished as a calming herbal remedy.
Flowering period and highlights
The flowering period is long, from around May to October, so you can enjoy them from early summer to autumn. Because they are heat-resistant, you often see them in flowerbeds in gardens and parks.
Here are some recommended spots to enjoy Coleopsis.
*Please note that the planting conditions vary from year to year, so please check the latest information from each facility before your visit.
● Jidai Botanical Park (Chofu City, Tokyo)
This is one of the largest botanical parks in Tokyo. Around June, the flowerbeds are filled with summer flowers, and many plants of the Asteraceae family can be seen. Some years, Coreopsis is planted.
● Showa Kinen Park (National Park) (立川市, Tokyo)
The expansive grounds are adorned with seasonal flowers, and in the summer flowerbeds, you might even see Coreopsis in bloom. We recommend checking the official "Flower Report" for information on when the flowers are in bloom.
● Kasai Rinkai Park (Edogawa Ward, Tokyo)
The park's appeal lies in its grassy lawns and flowerbeds. In the summer, bright flowers, including Coreopsis, may appear.
● Koishikawa Botanical Gardens (Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo)
This is a botanical garden affiliated with the University of Tokyo, where you can learn about the classification and history of horticultural plants. In some years, you can observe Asteraceae plants, including Coreopsis.
● Shinjuku Gyoen (Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo)
Flowers of all four seasons bloom beautifully in the Western-style garden and spacious flowerbeds. Coreopsis can sometimes be found among the Asteraceae family's summer flowers.
● Hibiya Park (Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo)
Despite being in the heart of the city, flowerbeds and rose gardens have been developed, and there's a possibility that flowering plants like Coreopsis will appear in the summer.
Key points for cultivation
Because they are hardy and easy to grow, they are recommended even for gardening beginners.
● Because it prefers sunlight, grow it in a location where it receives plenty of sunlight.
● Choose soil with good drainage and be careful not to overwater.
● While it is drought-tolerant, it needs to be watered moderately during the summer.
● Pruning: Regularly removing faded flowers will encourage the plant to continue blooming new flowers.
Be careful not to mistake it for the very similar "Ookinkei-giku".
Another flower similar to Coreopsis is " Coreopsis lanceolata ." It also blooms with vibrant yellow flowers, but it's highly invasive and once spread, it takes over the habitat of native wildflowers. Therefore, in Japan, it was designated as a specified invasive species under the Invasive Foreign Species Control Law in 2006. Consequently, its transportation, cultivation, and transfer in a living state are prohibited.
Sites to refer to.
● NHK Hobby Gardening
It is packed with basic knowledge about gardening and information on how to grow plants.
● GreenSnap
Users can share information and learn tips on how to grow plants.
● LOVEGREEN
We provide detailed information about seasonal flowers and gardening.
Coreopsis is a wonderful plant that brightens up gardens and parks with its cheerful flower colors and hardy nature. It continues to bloom from early summer to autumn, and its long blooming period is one of its charms. When you need a boost of energy from bright colors, please stop and appreciate its lovely appearance.
