Golden yellow show / Coreopsis tripteris 'Lightning Flash'

“I have had the opportunity to grow and observe these plants in full sun for a period of about 10 years. I have always admired the bright golden leaves that stand out from a long distance in the garden and the foliage that draws attention throughout the growing season.”

This article is from the plant introduction editors of Nursery Management Magazine. Mark Dwyer's article was prepared by shortening it. This article was also published in the June 2025 issue of the same magazine. Many Coreopsis varieties are grown in Türkiye and used in landscaping. But it would be more accurate to say that we have not come across this species.

MARK DWYER: “Gardeners appreciate the flowers of Coreopsis tripteris 'Lightning Flash,' but the nuances of this plant's leaf color and texture also add much to its visual appeal. This characteristic is definitely that of 'Lightning Flash' (Coreopsis tripteris). I have had the good fortune of growing and observing three of these plants in full sun over a period of about 10 years. I have always been attracted to these brilliant golden leaves, which attract attention from a long distance when you look out into the garden and whose foliage captures attention throughout the growing season.

Available as a seedling from the former Messenbrink's Nursery in North Carolina (USA), 'Lightning Flash' was first introduced in 2007 and although I have not seen it widely available, it is a very valuable candidate for the garden with its wonderful combination of shining leaves and showy summer flowers.

This clump-forming perennial, which grows upright to 3 to 5 feet (1 to 1.5 m) when in bloom, thrives in warm and humid conditions. Native to North America, the species is very adaptable to soils, including poorer soils. However, adequate drainage is essential. Once established in the garden, this species is drought tolerant. Planting in full sun is ideal, but in warmer climates, a little dappled afternoon shade will help preserve the leaves during the hottest part of summer.

When it emerges in spring, the lance-shaped, bright gold leaves are striking and densely packed from ground level. These narrow, narrow leaves may turn light green in summer (or when there is less sunlight), but are still visually impressive. The leaves are rabbit and deer resistant. They are also considered to be resistant to urban pollution.

Golden yellow flowers appear in terminal clusters on upright stems in midsummer (lasting 5-6 weeks) and have reddish-brown centers. One of the few criticisms of ‘Lightning Flash’ is that bloom volume is variable from year to year. I have always found my specimens to bloom, although some years are considered more “vigorous” than others. Bees and butterflies will find these plants in bloom. Crown rot can occur in poorly drained soils.”