Cosmos Cosmos bipinnatus 'Versailles Tetra' (Versailles Series)
ABOUT
Cosmos bipinnatus 'Versailles Tetra' is a strikingly beautiful plant beloved for its showy flowers. It is a part of the Versailles Series which is known for robust and large blooms. The flowers are a main attraction with their broad, brightly colored petals that radiate around a central button-like disc. These petals can come in a range of colors, often presenting in shades of pink, magenta, or a vivid crimson, though they can also be found in white or with bi-colored patterns. The blossoms have a gracefully flared form and they are borne atop long slender stems which are green and add an elegant, airy quality to the plant's profile. The foliage of Cosmos 'Versailles Tetra' is equally delicate and ornamental. Leaves are finely divided into thread-like segments, giving them a feathery or fern-like appearance. They create a backdrop that contrasts wonderfully with the vibrant display of the blossoms. Overall, the plant exudes a cottage garden charm and is frequently used in borders and flower beds for its aesthetic appeal.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Mexican Aster, Garden Cosmos, Cosmos
Common names
Cosmos bipinnatus 'Versailles Tetra'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Cosmos, specifically Cosmos bipinnatus, is not widely known to be toxic to humans. This flowering plant is usually grown for ornamental purposes and, when handled or ingested in typical amounts, does not commonly cause adverse reactions in humans. There are no well-documented symptoms of poisoning from Cosmos due to its general non-toxic nature.
To pets
Cosmos, including varieties like Cosmos bipinnatus 'Versailles Tetra', is generally considered non-toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. Ingesting this plant typically should not lead to significant symptoms of poisoning in pets. However, as with any non-food plant, consuming large quantities might cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea due to the irritation of the digestive tract, but significant toxicity is not expected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
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 'Versailles Tetra' is known for being easy to cultivate and tolerant of poor soil conditions, making it an ideal choice for novice gardeners.
- Attracts Pollinators: This plant is excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden, which can aid in the pollination of other plants.
- Long Blooming Season: With a lengthy flowering period from midsummer until the first frost, this cosmos variety provides continuous color and interest in the garden.
- Ornamental Value: The Cosmos bipinnatus 'Versailles Tetra' boasts beautiful showy flowers that can add aesthetic appeal to garden beds, borders, and as cut flowers in bouquets.
- Suitable for Containers: It can be successfully grown in containers, making it versatile for patios, balconies, or small gardens where space is limited.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this plant can tolerate drought, reducing the need for frequent watering and making it a good choice for water-wise gardens.
- Edible Flowers: The flowers of Cosmos bipinnatus 'Versailles Tetra' are edible and can be used as a decorative and flavorful addition to salads and other dishes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The vibrant and tall stems of Cosmos make it a popular choice among photographers looking for natural and colorful backgrounds or subjects in garden photography.
- Natural Dye: The petals of the Cosmos flower can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of hues from pinks to oranges.
- Art Supplies: Artists sometimes use the petals or the whole flower for pressing and incorporating into mixed media art projects or for creating botanical prints.
- Educational Tool: Cosmos can be utilized in educational settings such as schools to teach children about plant biology, life cycles, and the process of pollination.
- Edible Garnish: Although not commonly known for its culinary uses, Cosmos petals can be used as a colorful garnish for salads and desserts.
- Craft Material: Dried Cosmos flowers can be used in crafting, such as in the creation of homemade potpourri blends or decorative wreaths.
- Companion Planting: Cosmos can be planted alongside vegetable gardens as they are believed to attract beneficial insects that aid in pollination and pest control.
- Solitary Bee Habitats: The structure of Cosmos flowers can provide nesting sites or temporary shelter for solitary bees and other beneficial insects.
- Ikebana: Cosmos is suitable for the Japanese art of flower arranging, known as Ikebana, due to its striking appearance and long, slender stems.
- Homemade Confetti: Dried and crushed petals of Cosmos can be used as a biodegradable alternative to traditional confetti for celebrations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cosmos is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cosmos is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty: Cosmos, given their attractive and colorful flowers, often symbolize beauty in the world of floral meanings.
- Order and Balance: The name 'Cosmos' is derived from the Greek word for harmony or ordered universe, suggesting the plant represents an orderly, balanced, and harmonious system.
- Simplicity: The simple yet elegant form of the cosmos flower is often associated with the concept of simplicity, appreciating the uncomplicated aspects of life.
- Peace: The calming effect of the cosmos flower’s appearance makes it a symbol for peace and tranquility.
- Wholeness: The almost perfect symmetry of the petals represents a sense of wholeness and well-being.
- Modesty: Despite their striking appearance, cosmo flowers are not as flamboyant as other blooms, which can symbolize modesty and humility.
- Innocence: Cosmo flowers are often associated with innocence, likely due to their delicate and pure appearance.
- Love of Life: The vibrancy and vigorous growth of cosmos flowers suggest a zest for life and enthusiasm.
WaterCosmos flowers should be watered regularly, but it is vital to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent rot. The optimal approach is to check the top inch of soil; if it feels dry, it is time to water. When watering, do so deeply to encourage root growth, which typically means providing about 1-2 gallons of water per plant every week, depending on weather conditions. During periods of high heat and drought, the plants may need more frequent watering. Always avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases by directing water to the base of the plants.
LightCosmos, commonly known as Mexican asters, thrive in full sun and should be placed in a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, they can tolerate some light afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. The best spot for these plants is an open area away from the shade of larger plants or structures to ensure they get ample sunlight.
TemperatureMexican asters prefer moderate temperatures and will perform best in conditions ranging from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around 25 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. Ideal growth occurs in the aforementioned moderate range, though they are quite adaptable and can handle short periods of higher temperatures if watered appropriately.
PruningPruning Mexican asters encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Cut back one-third of the growth midseason to rejuvenate and encourage a new flush of flowers. The best time for more severe pruning is in early spring or after the last frost, when new growth begins to appear.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCosmos, or Mexican Aster, thrives in a well-draining, moderately fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.5. A balanced mix would be one part garden soil, one part peat or compost, and one part perlite or sand.
RepottingMexican Aster typically doesn't require frequent repotting. Repot annually if grown in a container, or transplant seedlings every spring for garden cultivation.
Humidity & MistingMexican Aster does well in average humidity conditions and does not have specific humidity requirements, making it adaptable to most climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation for Mexican Aster.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun and well-draining soil for healthy Mexican Aster.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleCosmos bipinnatus 'Versailles Tetra', commonly known as the Garden Cosmos, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown directly into warm, well-drained soil after the last frost, or started indoors for earlier blooms. Upon germination, seedlings emerge and quickly grow tall, leafy stems with finely divided, feathery foliage. As the plant matures, it develops distinctive single or double flowers in shades of pink, red, or white with bright yellow centers, typically blooming from midsummer to the first fall frost. Garden Cosmos is an annual, completing its lifecycle in one growing season, with flowers being pollinated by insects like bees and butterflies, leading to the formation of seed heads. Once the seed heads mature and dry, they release seeds back into the soil to start a new generation, or can be collected by gardeners for controlled propagation. After flowering and seed dispersal, the Garden Cosmos plants die as winter sets in, although they often reseed themselves to create new plants the following year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Cosmos, specifically the Cosmos bipinnatus 'Versailles Tetra', is most commonly propagated by seed. The optimal time for sowing these seeds is in late winter to early spring, indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. To propagate by seed, plant the Cosmos seeds shallowly, about 1/4 inch deep, into well-drained, moist potting soil and gently cover them. They require a warm environment (around 75 degrees Fahrenheit or 24 degrees Celsius) and typically germinate within 7 to 10 days. Once the seedlings have grown and there is no more risk of frost, they should be thinned out or transplanted outside, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (or 30 to 46 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth.
