About

This compact annual reaches a height of 30 cm and features finely dissected foliage. It produces prominent, bowl-shaped flowers in a rich carmine red, measuring 8 cm in diameter, which bloom throughout the summer and autumn months.

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, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

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

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun
Pruning
Deadhead to prolong flowering
Propagation
See sowing seeds indoors
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to aphids and slugs
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to grey moulds