About
Cosmos sulphureus is a half-hardy annual characterized by its delicate, feathery leaves and an extended blooming period. Height can vary significantly, typically ranging from 50 cm to 1 m, with some dwarf varieties available. The flowers exhibit a range of colors, predominantly in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
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
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Bushy, Columnar upright
- 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, City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens, Coastal
- Native to
- Mexico, C America, N S America
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun
- Pruning
- Deadheading should be carried out regularly to prolong flowering
- Propagation
- See sowing seeds indoors
- Pest resistance
- Aphids and slugs may be a nuisance
- Disease resistance
- Grey moulds may be a problem