Cosmos bipinnatus
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusCosmos
Zone2
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Cosmos bipinnatus, commonly known as garden cosmos or Mexican aster, is a flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. Native to Mexico, it is widely cultivated for its attractive, daisy-like flowers that come in a variety of colors including pink, white, and purple. As an annual plant, it completes its life cycle in one growing season. It thrives in temperate climates and is known for its feathery foliage and long blooming period.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Bidens Bipinnata
Bidens Formosa
Bidens Lindleyi
Coreopsis Formosa
Cosmea Bipinnata
Cosmea Tenifolia
Cosmea Tenuifolia
Dahlia Repens
Dahlia Zimapani
Georgia Bipinnata
Georgina Bipinnata
Cosmos bipinnatus var. albiflorus
Cosmos bipinnatus var. bipinnatus
Cosmos bipinnatus var. exaristatus
Cosmos bipinnatus var. typicus
Cosmos diversifolius var. pumilus
Cosmos diversifolius var. typicus
Cosmos formosa
Cosmos hybridus
Cosmos reptans
Cosmos spectabilis
Cosmos spectabilis var. alba
Cosmos spectabilis var. rosea
Cosmos tenuifolia
Cosmos tenuifolius
Garden cosmos
Mexican aster
Rubenza cosmos
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
GDD1,050
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Cosmos bipinnatus is relatively easy to care for. It prefers full sun and moderate temperatures. Water the plant when the soil is dry, but avoid overwatering. It can tolerate a range of humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity. This plant is well-suited for outdoor gardens and can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.Harvest
Cosmos bipinnatus, commonly known as garden cosmos, should be harvested when the flowers are fully open but before they start to fade. To harvest, use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stems early in the morning when the plants are hydrated. Make sure to leave some foliage on the plant to encourage further blooming. Regular deadheading of spent flowers can also promote continuous flowering throughout the growing season.Soil
Cosmos bipinnatus prefers well-draining soil and can thrive in poor to average soil conditions. A loamy soil mix is ideal. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.Repotting
As an annual plant, Cosmos bipinnatus does not require repotting. However, if grown in containers, ensure the pot has adequate drainage and consider refreshing the soil each growing season.Propagation
Cosmos bipinnatus is easily propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds directly in the garden after the last frost date. Seeds can also be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost and transplanted outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.Pruning
Pruning is not strictly necessary but can help maintain the plant's shape and encourage more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. Cut back the plant if it becomes too leggy.Toxicity
Cosmos bipinnatus is non-toxic to pets and humans. It is safe to grow in gardens where children and pets are present.Additional
Cosmos bipinnatus is a great choice for adding color to garden beds and borders. It is also excellent for cut flower arrangements. The plant is relatively pest-resistant but watch out for aphids and spider mites. Regularly inspect the plant and treat any infestations promptly.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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