Cosmos Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Vari Extra' (Double Click Series) (d)
ABOUT
The Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Vari Extra' from the Double Click Series is a charming flowering plant with a notable appearance. Its blooms possess an extra layer or even multiple layers of petals, creating a lush, full, and often ruffled look that gives the flowers a "double" appearance. These frilly flowers can come in a variety of hues, including shades of pink, white, and red, and they often display a lighter or darker halo around their yellow to golden-orange centers. The petals are soft and velvety to the touch, radiating around the central disk in an exuberant display of color. Beneath the showy blossoms, this plant has ferny foliage that adds to its overall delicate and airy charm. The leaves are finely divided, almost giving the appearance of a feathery texture. They provide a delightful contrast to the bold flowers and contribute to the light and ethereal quality of the plant. This juxtaposition of bold blooms and fine foliage gives the Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Vari Extra' a unique and attractive presence in any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mexican Aster, Garden Cosmos, Double Click Cosmos
Common names
Cosmos bipinnatus
ToxicityTo humans
Cosmos, including the Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Series', is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from Cosmos and it is not known to contain any toxic compounds that would cause harm if ingested in small quantities. Therefore, accidental ingestion is not likely to lead to serious poisoning, but as with any plant not intended for consumption, it's still advisable to avoid eating it. If large amounts were consumed, it may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the plant's fiber content, but significant toxicity is unlikely.
To pets
Cosmos, including the Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Series', is generally not considered toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. There are no significant reports of toxicity in pets from ingestion of Cosmos. While no severe symptoms of poisoning are expected, it's possible that ingestion might lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, particularly if a pet eats a large amount of the plant. Nevertheless, it is always best to keep an eye on your pets and prevent them from eating ornamental plants, as even non-toxic plants can cause discomfort or indicate an underlying health issue if a pet is eating them excessively.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Cosmos is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden, which helps in pollination and increases biodiversity.
- Easy to Grow: This variety of cosmos is particularly easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance and being tolerant of poor soil conditions.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, cosmos plants can withstand periods of drought, making them suitable for a variety of climates and reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Extended Blooming Period: Cosmos can bloom from early summer until the first frost, providing long-lasting color and interest in the garden.
- Cut Flower Garden Staple: The long stems and attractive blooms of cosmos make them ideal for cutting gardens, providing fresh flowers for bouquets and arrangements.
- Adds Height and Texture: With its tall stems and feathery foliage, cosmos can add vertical interest and textural contrast to garden beds and borders.
- Self-Seeding: Cosmos plants can self-seed, ensuring a display of flowers in subsequent years without the need for replanting.
- Variety of Colors: The Double Click Series offers a range of bloom colors, adding variety and vibrant hues to the garden palette.
- Edible Flowers: The petals of cosmos flowers are edible and can be used to add a colorful touch to salads and desserts.
- Low Pesticide Requirement: Cosmos generally require fewer pesticides, making them a more environmentally friendly gardening choice.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Double Click Series of Cosmos is often used as a natural dyeing agent due to the pigments in the petals which can produce a range of colors, especially when used with mordants.
- Cosmos petals can be applied to specialty papers and cards for an organic, floral touch in craft projects, due to their vibrant colors and ease of pressing.
- In the culinary sphere, the petals of Cosmos are sometimes used as a decorative garnish on salads and desserts, though they are not widely recognized for their flavor.
- The stems of Cosmos can be used in woven basketry or as a natural fibrous element in handmade papers, due to their flexibility and strength.
- Cosmos flowers are a resource for photographers and artists who seek to capture the beauty of nature in their work, thanks to their striking appearance.
- The petals can also be used in homemade potpourri mixes for a subtle fragrance and a splash of color in the home.
- Cosmos flowers sometimes serve in educational settings as a tool for teaching children about botany and the lifecycle of plants.
- During social events and weddings, petals of Cosmos can be used in place of confetti as a biodegradable option that adds to the aesthetic appeal.
- These flowers can be used in floating arrangements in water bowls or fountains to create a peaceful and natural ambiance in garden settings.
- Cosmos flowers, due to their consistent blooming, can be used to assist in timing and educational demonstrations in gardening classes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cosmos flower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cosmos flower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty in Simplicity: Cosmos flowers, in general, are known for their simple yet striking beauty, and the variety 'Double Click' with its unique double-flowered form takes this aesthetic to a new level while maintaining a sense of uncomplicated elegance.
- Harmony and Order: The name "cosmos" is derived from the Greek word for harmony or ordered universe. This plant carries the symbolic meaning of balance and a well-ordered arrangement, reflecting the evenly spaced petals and radial symmetry of its blooms.
- Love: The flower's soft and playful appearance often symbolizes love and affection, an ideal flower for expressing tender feelings without being overwhelming.
- Peace: Cosmos are also associated with tranquility and peace, offering a sense of calmness and serenity to anyone who gazes upon them.
- Modesty: Despite its showy flowers, the Cosmos 'Double Click' variety retains a humble aspect, representative of modesty and unassuming character.
- Wholeness: With its circular form and harmonious structure, it symbolizes the concept of wholeness or completeness, making it a fitting gift for someone who brings a sense of fullness to your life.
WaterCosmos, also known as Mexican Aster, prefers consistent moisture, particularly during dry spells. It should be watered deeply once a week, allowing for about one inch of water to soak the soil. During hotter and drier periods, you may need to increase watering to twice a week. It's crucial to avoid overhead watering to prevent foliar diseases; instead, direct the water at the base of the plant. Always check the soil moisture before watering, as overwatering can lead to root rot; the soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
LightMexican Asters thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They perform best when planted in a sunny spot, away from significant shade sources, as ample sunlight promotes healthy growth and abundant flowering. However, in extremely hot climates, they can benefit from light afternoon shade to prevent them from wilting.
TemperatureMexican Asters prefer moderate temperatures and can survive a range of conditions, generally between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They can handle occasional dips to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night but perform best when the temperature is kept within the ideal range. These plants are frost-sensitive, and temperatures below freezing can significantly damage or kill them.
PruningPruning Mexican Asters is done to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. It involves deadheading, or removing spent flowers, regularly throughout the blooming season to promote continuous flowering. Pruning can also include cutting back leggy stems to maintain a neat shape. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth, as well as periodically through the blooming period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCosmos, commonly known as garden cosmos, thrives best in a well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. The ideal soil mix should contain equal parts garden soil, compost, and sharp sand or perlite to ensure proper drainage. During the growing season, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be added to support healthy growth and abundant flowering.
RepottingGarden cosmos, being an annual, typically does not require repotting as it completes its lifecycle within one year. Instead, it is sown directly into the garden or started in pots and transplanted after the risk of frost has passed. If started in containers, transplant young cosmos plants when they have several true leaves and are large enough to handle.
Humidity & MistingGarden cosmos are not particularly sensitive to humidity and can thrive in an average outdoor environment. They prefer conditions that mimic their natural habitat, which does not require high humidity. Therefore, typical ambient outdoor humidity is generally sufficient for healthy growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water moderately.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, water regularly, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleCosmos bipinnatus, commonly known as Cosmos, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in warm, moist soil typically after the last frost of spring. Seedlings emerge and establish a root system, followed by the development of foliage as they mature. As the plant grows, it forms a tall, bushy structure with finely divided leaves characteristic of the species. Throughout the summer months, the 'Double Click' variety produces numerous showy, double-flowered blossoms that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Following pollination, the flowers develop into seed heads, which, when mature, release seeds for reproduction. In colder climates, Cosmos is an annual plant, completing its life cycle within one growing season and relying on seed dispersal for the next generation's growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagating Cosmos, including the Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Vari Extra', is by seed. To propagate by seed, begin by sowing the seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. Spread the seeds onto a moist seed-starting mix, pressing them lightly into the surface, as they need light to germinate. Cover the container with plastic wrap or a clear plastic lid to maintain humidity and place it in a warm spot with plenty of indirect light. Germination typically occurs within 7-10 days. Once the seedlings have grown large enough to handle and there's no more risk of frost, they can be transplanted outdoors, spacing them about 12-18 inches (30-45 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
