Mexican Aster Cosmos bipinnatus 'Gazebo White'
ABOUT
Cosmos 'Gazebo White' is an elegant flowering plant with a showy display of white blossoms. The flowers are characterized by their bright, pure white petals which radiate around a central yellow disc, creating a daisy-like effect. The petals are delicate and broad, forming a circular shape, and they have a silky, sometimes almost translucent texture. The center of each flower, where the yellow disc is located, often attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The foliage of 'Gazebo White' is comprised of feathery, finely divided leaves that are a vibrant green in color, providing a contrasting backdrop to the white flowers. This lacy foliage has a fern-like appearance, contributing to the overall airy and light feel of the plant. When in bloom, 'Gazebo White' presents a stunning and clean visual appeal with its profusion of white flowers that can create a sense of brightness in any garden or landscape setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Mexican Aster, Garden Cosmos, Cosmos.
Common names
Cosmos bipinnatus
ToxicityTo humans
Cosmos, including the 'Gazebo White' variety, is not known to be toxic to humans. Generally, cosmos plants are considered safe and there are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting this plant. However, it is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants due to potential pesticide exposure and the possibility of individual allergic reactions.
To pets
Cosmos, including the 'Gazebo White' variety, is not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered a non-toxic plant for animals such as dogs and cats. Ingesting it should not cause any severe symptoms of poisoning. Nevertheless, consumption of non-food plants can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea, primarily if ingested in large quantities. If you suspect your pet has eaten a large amount of the plant and is showing signs of distress, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
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- Easy to Grow: Cosmos bipinnatus 'Gazebo White' is known for its ease of cultivation and can thrive even in poor soil conditions.
- Attracts Pollinators: Its bright white flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, aiding in pollination.
- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: With its eye-catching white blooms, it adds elegance and a sense of tranquility to gardens.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is highly resistant to drought, making it a suitable choice for water-wise gardening.
- Allows for Versatile Use: Suitable for borders, beds, and containers, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Long Blooming Season: Cosmos bipinnatus 'Gazebo White' offers a prolonged display of flowers from early summer until frost.
- Cut Flower Garden Addition: It is an excellent choice for cut flower gardens due to its long-stemmed blooms that hold up well in vases.
- Continuous Bloom: Deadheading the spent flowers encourages continued blooming, ensuring a consistent display of white blossoms.
- Self-seeding: This plant may self-seed under favorable conditions, which can provide new growth in subsequent seasons without additional planting.
Medical Properties- This 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 natural dye production; the petals of 'Gazebo White' cosmos can produce subtle hues on fabrics, depending on the mordant used.
- The dried petals of cosmos can be incorporated into homemade paper, adding a unique texture and visual interest to the finished product.
- Cosmos plants can be planted as part of a children's sensory garden, as they have feathery foliage and a unique flower texture that can spark curiosity.
- When grown in large quantities, cosmos can be used as a living mulch to help with soil temperature regulation and moisture retention.
- The stems and flowers of cosmos can be used in floral art projects, such as creating pressed flower bookmarks or framed botanical art.
- As part of a companion planting strategy, cosmos can attract beneficial insects that help to pollinate vegetable crops and control pests.
- In photography, cosmos can be used as a delicate foreground subject against dramatic landscapes or as a soft-focus backdrop for portraits.
- Cosmos seeds can be included in 'seed bombs' for guerilla gardening or ecological restoration projects, contributing to the beautification and diversification of urban spaces.
- The symmetry and simple elegance of cosmos flowers make them ideal subjects for artists and students learning to draw or paint botanical illustrations.
- Cosmos can be used as an eco-friendly confetti alternative at weddings; the white petals of 'Gazebo White' provide a biodegradable option to shower the newlyweds.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cosmos is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cosmos is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love - Cosmos flowers, in general, are associated with love and affection, making them an appropriate gift for loved ones.
- Harmony - The symmetrical and balanced form of the cosmos flower signifies harmony and order in life.
- Beauty - 'Gazebo White', like other cosmos varieties, is often linked to the appreciation of beauty, representing an eye for aesthetics.
- Purity - The white color of 'Gazebo White' cosmos exemplifies purity, innocence, and peace.
- Modesty - Cosmos flowers can symbolize modesty due to their simple yet elegant appearance, demonstrating unpretentious beauty.
- Peace - The calming effect of the white blooms signifies tranquility and peace of mind.
WaterCosmos, commonly known as Garden Cosmos or Mexican Aster, requires moderate and consistent watering. Initially, while the plants are establishing, they should be watered regularly, about once a week with approximately one to two gallons depending on weather conditions, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Once established, Garden Cosmos can tolerate drought, but for optimal growth, they should still receive at least one gallon of water every week, especially during prolonged dry periods.
LightGarden Cosmos thrives in full sunlight. The best light conditions would ensure the plant gets at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Planting in a spot where it can receive unfiltered sunlight throughout the day will result in the healthiest growth and most abundant flowering.
TemperatureGarden Cosmos prefers warm temperatures and can tolerate a range from about 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for its growth is between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minor frosts, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50 degrees can be damaging.
PruningGarden Cosmos requires minimal pruning. Deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, should be done regularly to encourage more blooms. Cutting back the plant by one-third in midsummer can promote a second wave of flowering. The best time to prune is when there are visibly faded or dead flowers.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Cosmos, or Cosmos bipinnatus 'Gazebo White', thrives in a soil mix that is well-draining, loamy, and rich in organic matter. A blend of two parts garden soil, one part peat or coconut coir, and one part perlite or sand is ideal. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of around 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingCosmos, specifically the 'Gazebo White' variety, generally does not require frequent repotting as it is an annual plant. It is often grown from seed each year and will complete its life cycle within one season. Therefore, repotting is not usually necessary unless grown as a perennial in warm climates.
Humidity & MistingCosmos 'Gazebo White' prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable to different humidity conditions. They tend to flourish in the average ambient humidity of an outdoor setting. Excessive humidity is not required, and they are tolerant of dry air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Cosmos in bright light and well-draining soil indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Cosmos in full sun, well-drained soil, after frost threat.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Cosmos 'Gazebo White' begins as a seed, which when sown in fertile, well-drained soil and given warmth and moisture, will germinate typically within 7-21 days. Once the seedlings emerge and grow to form true leaves, they are in the vegetative stage, developing a network of leaves and stems that are crucial for photosynthesis. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, where it produces large white blooms that attract various pollinators, this occurs approximately 2-3 months after seeding, depending on the growing conditions. Following pollination, the flowers develop into seed heads, marking the reproductive stage, where seeds are produced for the next generation. With the arrival of colder temperatures or declining growing conditions, Cosmos 'Gazebo White' will enter senescence, where the plant's metabolic processes slow down, and it finally dies, completing its annual life cycle. If seed heads are left on the plant, they will naturally disperse seeds, ensuring the continuation of the species in the following growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most popular method of propagation for Cosmos Gazebo White, commonly known as Cosmos, is through seed. To maximize growth potential, it’s best to sow Cosmos seeds directly into the garden after the last frost when the soil has warmed, usually in late spring or early summer. The seeds should be scattered lightly onto the surface of the soil and then gently pressed down for good seed-to-soil contact but not covered with soil, as Cosmos seeds need light to germinate effectively. Water the seeds lightly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and germination will typically occur within 7-21 days. Thin the seedlings to about 12 to 18 inches (approximately 30 to 46 centimeters) apart once they have a couple of sets of true leaves, to ensure each plant has enough space to grow.
