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, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Bushy, Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Cultivation
Fertile moist soil, sun
Pruning
Deadhead to prolong the flowering season
Propagation
See sowing seeds indoors
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to aphids and slugs
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to grey moulds and foot and root rot