South Florida Annual Flowers

Orange Cosmos

• Orange cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus) are annual plants that thrive in the hot southern Florida summers. They are easy to grow from seed or plants and may be purchased at local nurseries and greenhouses. Preferred growing conditions for these flowers are sandy infertile soil and full sun exposure. They are drought tolerant, although lack of moisture will stunt their growth. Plant height varies depending on the type and ranges from 1 to 7 feet tall. The 2- to 3-inch diameter flowers look similar to daisies and range in color from yellow to orange. These flowers are useful in flower beds, butterfly gardens, along fences or in a field as wildflowers. They will reseed freely if the flowers are left to go to seed.

Marigolds

• Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are easy-to-grow annuals that do very well in southern Florida. They also will grow easily from seed sown directly into the garden or plants may be purchased from local nurseries. Marigolds adapt to most soil types as long as it drains well. Full sun exposure is fine but some shade from the hot midday sun is preferred. They are available in colors ranging from white, pale creamy yellow and pale pink to orange, brick red and deep burgundy. Mature plant heights vary depending on the type. French marigold plants grow to only 6 to 12 inches tall while African or American marigolds grow up to 4 feet tall. In addition to flowerbeds and along sidewalks, marigolds do well when grown in containers on a patio or deck.

Floss Flower

• Floss flower (Ageratum houstonianum) is an annual flowering plant that will bloom nicely in southern Florida. These plants can be difficult to grow from seed but are commonly available at area nurseries. Rich fertile soil that drains well is preferred, but average soil is sufficient. The soil must be kept evenly moist throughout the summer. If it is allowed to dry out, the plants will quickly wilt. A location that receives full sun exposure is fine but midday shade is preferred. The plants commonly grow in mound form to a height of 4 to 18 inches, although varieties are available that grow to 30 inches tall. Floss flower plants cover themselves with small fuzzy-looking flowers all summer long. The flowers are commonly purple, blue, lavender or pink, but a white variety is available as well. Floss flowers are used in flowerbeds, butterfly gardens, as edging plants along sidewalks and in containers but also do well in rock gardens. The tall varieties provide good cut flowers for flower arrangements.