About

Cosmos bipinnatus 'Cupcakes Blush' is a bushy annual that can reach heights of up to 90 cm. It features finely divided green foliage and blooms from midsummer until the first frost. The unique flowers, measuring 10-12 cm in diameter, have outer petals that are fused around a central yellow disc, creating a bowl-like appearance. These semi-double flowers begin as white and gradually transition to a blush pink hue over several days.

About the genus

Cosmos comprises both annual and perennial species characterized by either simple or pinnately divided foliage. These plants produce sizable, long-stemmed flowers resembling daisies during the summer months.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, East-facing, South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Plant type
Annual Biennial
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
1 year
Suggested uses
Coastal, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation
Sow seed in spring and plant out from early summer, at 50cm spacing, in moist but well-drained soil in full sun
Pruning
Deadhead to prolong the flowering season
Propagation
See sowing seeds indoors
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to grey moulds