About

This compact, bushy annual reaches a height of up to 30 cm and features finely divided, fern-like foliage. Throughout the summer and autumn, it produces prominent, semi-double blooms in shades of lemon, gold, 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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
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
City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens, Coastal

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun
Pruning
Deadhead regularly 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