Cosmos Varieties

Cosmos sulphureus

• Cosmos sulphureus produces blooms in shades of yellow, orange and red, and is often referred to as yellow cosmos. Foliage consists of long slender leaves with shallow lobes and hairy margins. Petals may be single or semidouble. This plant reaches heights of 18 to 36 inches and prefers full sun. Cosmos sulphureus originated in Mexico and South America, where Spanish priests grew them in mission gardens. These cosmos are annuals, but self seed when allowed to grow freely, sending up new plants in the spring.

Cosmos bipinnatus

• The brightly colored, 2- to 3-inch flowers of Cosmos bipinnatus seem to float above fernlike foliage. Colors range from pink to deep rose and lavender with contrasting yellow centers. Plants reach heights of 3 to 6 feet and thrive in full sun. These cosmos originated in open fields in the southern U.S. and South America. C. bipinnatus varieties can be either annuals or perennials. Perennial varieties are hardy in all U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zones and bloom from early summer until the first frost.

Height

• Cosmos range in height from 10 inches to 6 feet, depending on the cultivar. Choca Mocha, Pink Popsicle and Cosmic Orange reach heights from 10 to 14 inches, making them suitable for borders or baskets. Sensation Mix, Double Click and Psyche White tower to heights of 4 feet, making them suitable for planting along fences or at the back of flowerbeds.

Flower Types

• Cosmos flower types include single-, semidouble- and double-petaled blooms. Double Click and Rose Bonbon cultivars produce blooms so thick they resemble a carnation, while Pied Piper and Seashells Mix produce trumpet-shaped rolled petals.

History

• Although cosmos originated in warm climates and are tolerant of hot dry periods, these beauties have graced gardens across the U.S. since colonial days. As a favored flower, cosmos adorned fences, brightened the doorway and claimed an honored position in the flowerbed. Cosmos continue in popularity partially due to their beauty and partially because they require little care. Occasional watering and deadheading keeps these flowers blooming all summer.