Cosmos caudatus
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusCosmos
Zone10
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Cosmos caudatus, commonly known as Ulam Raja or King’s Salad, is an annual plant in the Asteraceae family. Native to Central and South America, it thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates. It is known for its feathery foliage and vibrant pink to purple flowers. The plant is often used in traditional medicine and as a culinary herb in Southeast Asia.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Coreopsis Coronata
Coreopsis Gracilis
Stokes' Aster
Bidens artemisiifolia subsp. caudata
Bidens artemisiifolia var. rubra
Bidens berteroana
Bidens carnea
Bidens caudata
Cosmea caudata
Cosmos
Cosmos caudatus var. caudatus
Foxtail
Wild cosmos
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD900
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Cosmos caudatus is relatively easy to care for. It prefers bright, direct sunlight and moderate temperatures. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, and ensure it has good air circulation. It can tolerate moderate humidity levels and does not require a dormancy period.Harvest
Cosmos caudatus, commonly known as Ulam Raja, is typically ready for harvest about 60 days after planting. The best time to harvest is in the early morning when the leaves are crisp and full of moisture. To harvest, use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stems just above a leaf node, which encourages new growth. Regular harvesting can promote bushier plants and more abundant foliage. Ensure that you do not remove more than one-third of the plant at a time to avoid stressing it.Soil
This plant prefers well-draining loamy soil. Ensure the soil is not waterlogged, as it can lead to root rot. A mix of garden soil with some sand and organic matter works well.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for Cosmos caudatus as it is an annual plant. However, if grown in containers, ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate its root system and has good drainage.Propagation
Cosmos caudatus can be easily propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds directly in the garden or in containers after the last frost. Ensure the soil is warm and keep it moist until germination.Pruning
Pruning is beneficial for Cosmos caudatus to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Pinch back the tips of the plant when it is young and remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.Toxicity
Cosmos caudatus is not toxic to pets or humans. It is safe to grow in gardens where pets and children are present.Additional
Cosmos caudatus is known for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to any garden. It is also used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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