Cosmos Cosmos bipinnatus Double Click Series (d)
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ABOUT
The Cosmos bipinnatus Double Click Series, often simply called cosmos, presents itself with a unique and enchanting appearance. This eye-catching plant is known for its vibrant, fluffy blooms that are a hallmark of this series. Unlike the single-petaled varieties of cosmos, the Double Click Series features flowers that are double or semi-double, giving them a fuller, almost ruffled look with a multitude of layers. These cosmic blossoms come in a delightful palette of colors, ranging from soft pinks and whites to more vivid shades of rose and burgundy, often sporting bright yellow centers that contrast beautifully with the petals. The flowers are borne atop slender stems, which splay out in a delicate, feathery fashion, thanks to the finely divided, ferny leaves that have a soft, almost ethereal texture. The leaves can be described as being thread-like, contributing to the overall airy feel of the plant. The overall effect of the Double Click cosmos when in bloom is a display of charmingly fluffy, colorful flowers that appear to dance lightly above the foliage. It's not only a feast for the eyes but also tends to attract butterflies and bees, adding to the whimsical feel. This series of cosmos is often celebrated for its extended blooming period, providing a lasting and dynamic addition to any garden display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mexican Aster, Garden Cosmos, Double Click Cosmos
Common names
Cosmos bipinnatus Double Click Series.
ToxicityTo humans
Cosmos, specifically the Cosmos bipinnatus Double Click Series, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, if ingested in large quantities, it might cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, but serious poisoning is rare. Most people can handle and be around the plant without worry, as Cosmos doesn't contain any known highly toxic substances.
To pets
Cosmos, specifically the Cosmos bipinnatus Double Click Series, is also generally considered non-toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. It does not contain substances that are known to be highly poisonous to them. If a pet ingests a part of the plant, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, due to the unusual plant material in their digestive system, but it is not expected to cause severe poisoning or long-term health issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Cosmos Double Click Series (d) produces attractive double-bloom flowers that enhance the visual beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: The plant is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, helping to support local ecosystems.
- Easy to Grow: It is considered to be low-maintenance and can be easily grown from seed, making it accessible for beginner gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Cosmos Double Click Series (d) is drought-tolerant, requiring minimal water, which is beneficial in arid climates or water-scarce areas.
- Long Blooming Period: The plant has a long flowering season, often from midsummer until the first frost, providing continuous color in the garden.
- Versatility: It is suitable for planting in beds, borders, and containers, offering flexibility in garden design and space utilization.
- Greater Adaptability: Cosmos Double Click Series (d) can adapt to a wide range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soil.
- Deer Resistance: The plant is generally not preferred by deer, which can be advantageous in areas where deer predation is a problem.
- Cut Flower Use: The blooms are excellent for cutting and creating floral arrangements, adding value to the plant as a source of home-grown bouquets.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cosmos can be used in educational settings such as schools and nature centers to teach students about the life cycle of plants and the importance of insects like bees and butterflies in pollination.
- The tall and sturdy stems of cosmos make them an ideal plant for creating natural supports for climbing plants or vegetables in a garden.
- The vibrant flowers of cosmos can be used in art projects, such as pressing for flower preservation or in botanical prints.
- Dried cosmos flowers can be incorporated into homemade potpourris, adding color and a light, pleasant fragrance to the mix.
- Cosmos petals can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, crafts, or even as a non-toxic colorant in homemade play dough for children.
- When grown in a garden, cosmos can be used as a border plant to define spaces or walkways with their characteristic bushy and colorful appearance.
- The seeds of cosmos are edible for birds, so planting cosmos can attract and provide food for avian wildlife in your backyard.
- In photography, cosmos flowers offer a picturesque element for portrait backdrops or macro photography subjects due to their unique and vibrant blooms.
- Cosmos can be used as part of a natural pest control strategy, attracting predatory insects that feed on common garden pests.
- During cultural events or local festivals, cosmos flowers can be displayed or used as part of community decorations to beautify public spaces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiCosmos is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityCosmos is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love - Cosmos flowers often symbolize love and are given as a sign of deep affection.
- Harmony - With its symmetrical form, Cosmos reflect balance and order, suggesting harmony in life.
- Beauty - Their attractive flowers represent the concept of external beauty as well as inner beauty of the soul.
- Peace - The word "cosmos" is derived from Greek, meaning order and harmony, which in turn associates the flower with tranquility and peace.
- Innocence - The delicate appearance of Cosmos can represent purity and innocence.
- Modesty - Even with their vibrant appearance, Cosmos flowers are not overwhelming, which can be seen as a symbol of modesty.
WaterCosmos, also known as the Garden Cosmos, should be watered regularly but be careful not to overwater. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. During the growing season, watering roughly once a week with about 1 gallon of water per plant should suffice, depending on weather conditions and soil type. If the weather is particularly hot or dry, you may need to water more frequently. Cosmos are somewhat drought-tolerant, so it's better to underwater than overwater. Make sure the water penetrates deeply into the soil to encourage deep root growth.
LightGarden Cosmos thrive in full sun, meaning they require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Plant them in a location where they'll receive unhindered sunlight for the majority of the day to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Partial shade can be tolerated, but flowering may be less prolific. For optimal flowering, choose the sunniest spot available in your garden.
TemperatureGarden Cosmos prefer warm conditions and are best grown in temperatures ranging between 70°F and 85°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50°F; however, frost can damage or kill the plant. They are heat tolerant and can survive in temperatures up to about 100°F, but prolonged heat can stress the plant. For best results, plant cosmos where the temperature remains within their preferred range.
PruningPruning Garden Cosmos is essential for maintaining a neat appearance and can encourage more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. Conduct light pruning throughout the season as needed to remove any yellowing or damaged leaves. The best time for pruning is early to mid-summer when the plant has reached a considerable size, and again in late summer if necessary to rejuvenate the plant for the fall.
CleaningNot needed
SoilCosmos, commonly known as Garden Cosmos, thrive in a well-draining soil mix with a pH between 6.0 and 8.5. A good soil recipe would be a blend of garden soil, peat, perlite, and a small amount of balanced fertilizer to promote strong growth. Avoid overly rich or wet soils to prevent root rot.
RepottingGarden Cosmos generally do not require repotting as they are annuals. Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors and transplant after the risk of frost has passed.
Humidity & MistingGarden Cosmos are not particularly humidity-sensitive and do well in a wide range of humidity levels, preferring average to dry conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Garden Cosmos in a sunny spot, ensure ample light.
Outdoor
Plant Garden Cosmos in full sun, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus Double Click Series) begins with seed germination, which occurs in warm soil after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 65°F (18°C). Once sprouted, seedlings develop true leaves and continue to grow, benefiting from full sunlight and well-drained soil. As the plant matures, it forms a sturdy stem and feathery foliage characteristic of Cosmos. Blossoming occurs in midsummer to early fall, where the Double Click Series showcases its semi-double to fully double flowers in shades of pink, white, and red. After pollination, typically by bees and butterflies, the plant sets seed, which can be collected for propagation or allowed to self-sow. Finally, as temperatures drop in late autumn, the Cosmos completes its annual cycle, dying back after frost, though it often reseeds for the following growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: Cosmos, specifically the Cosmos bipinnatus Double Click Series, is typically propagated through seeds. The best time to sow Cosmos seeds is in the late winter to early spring, indoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost date. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept at a temperature of around 75 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 24 degrees Celsius). Sowing the seeds can also be done directly outdoors after all danger of frost has passed, as cosmos are quite hardy and germinate easily in well-draining soil. To ensure good germination, keep the soil moist until the seedlings are well-established. Thinning the seedlings is necessary once they've grown enough to handle, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth. This seed-sowing method is by far the most popular and effective for propagating Cosmos.
