Orange Cosmos Cosmos sulphureus Klondike Mixed
![cosmos [Klondike Mixed]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b650e96c72.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
Cosmos sulphureus Klondike Mixed, commonly known as Sulphur Cosmos, is a vibrant and showy annual flower known for its colorful display. The plant bears a profusion of daisy-like flowers that come in a mix of warm shades, generally including bright yellows, oranges, and deep reds. Each flower is composed of a central disk, typically darker in color, surrounded by a ring of ray florets that are slightly toothed at the tips. The flowers bloom prolifically and are a magnet for butterflies and other pollinators. The foliage of Sulphur Cosmos is finely textured with feathery, divided leaves that are fern-like in appearance. These leaves are typically a medium green color, adding to the plant's airy and delicate look. The overall form of Sulphur Cosmos is bushy, with branching stems that create a lush and full-bodied display in the garden. As an ornamental plant, its striking flowers, and ferny foliage make it a favored choice for borders, beds, and as a background for landscaping. It adds a splash of late summer to fall color to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Sulfur Cosmos, Yellow Cosmos, Orange Cosmos
Common names
Cosmos sulphureus Klondike Mixed
ToxicityTo humans
Sulphur Cosmos is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is no widespread documentation of Sulphur Cosmos causing significant poisoning symptoms or health issues upon ingestion. As with many plants, individuals with specific allergies may experience mild reactions, but there are no common toxic effects associated with this plant when touched or accidentally consumed in small quantities.
To pets
Sulphur Cosmos is generally considered non-toxic to pets as well. Similar to their effect on humans, there is no significant evidence to suggest that Sulphur Cosmos pose a serious risk if ingested by pets, such as cats and dogs. There may be cases of individual sensitivity or allergic reactions, but no widespread symptoms of toxicity are typically associated with this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive to Pollinators: Cosmos sulphureus Klondike Mixed is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are essential for pollination and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow: With its low maintenance requirements, it's ideal for novice gardeners and those looking for fuss-free gardening. It thrives in a range of soil types and doesn't require fertilizer.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is quite drought-resistant, making it a suitable choice for gardens in drier climates.
- Adds Color and Beauty: The vibrant flowers of Cosmos sulphureus enhance visual appeal in gardens, borders, and as cut flowers in floral arrangements.
- Fast-Growing: It is a quick-growing plant, allowing gardeners to enjoy its blooms not long after planting seeds.
- Long Blooming Season: With a long flowering season from mid-summer to fall, it provides sustained beauty and interest in a garden landscape.
- Helps Suppress Weeds: Due to its foliage, it can help prevent weeds from taking over garden beds by competing for sunlight and resources.
- Versatility: It can be used in various garden settings such as borders, beds, containers, and as a backdrop for shorter plants.
- Enhances Biodiversity: By providing food and habitat for a variety of insects, Cosmos sulphureus contributes to the ecological health of garden environments.
- Seed Production: After blooming, it produces seeds that can be collected for future planting or left to self-seed, encouraging natural propagation.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cosmos sulphureus flowers can be used as natural dyes for fabrics, yielding vibrant hues ranging from orange to yellow depending on the mordant used.
- The petals of the Cosmos sulphureus can be sprinkled on salads or desserts to add a splash of color and a mildly tangy flavor.
- Dried Cosmos sulphureus flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for a subtle, pleasant fragrance.
- Cosmos sulphureus can be planted as a companion plant to vegetable gardens to attract pollinators and enhance pollination of crops.
- The plant can be used in educational settings to teach children about the life cycle of plants and the importance of insects in pollination.
- Cosmos sulphureus can serve as a natural pest deterrent when planted in close proximity to crops susceptible to aphids and other pests.
- The seeds of Cosmos sulphureus can be used in bird feeders as they are a source of food for finches and other seed-eating birds.
- When dried, Cosmos sulphureus stems can be used to create eco-friendly art projects or woven into decorative items such as wreaths or wall hangings.
- The vibrant colors of Cosmos sulphureus flowers make them an excellent choice for dying Easter eggs naturally without the use of synthetic dyes.
- Cosmos sulphureus can be used in landscape photography and painting as a subject to capture the essence of wildflower meadows and the beauty of natural flora.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiCosmos is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityCosmos is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Balance and Harmony: The symmetrical, evenly arranged petals of Cosmos sulphureus represent a balanced and harmonious aesthetic, aligning with the Greek word 'kosmos' meaning orderly and ornamental.
- Beauty in Simplicity: Its simple yet vibrant flowers symbolize the idea that true beauty lies in simplicity and unpretentiousness.
- Love and Affection: In flower language, cosmos flowers often denote love and are given as tokens of affection to convey deep feelings.
- Peace and Tranquility: The gentle sway of Cosmos sulphureus in the breeze is evocative of peace and serenity, making it an emblem of a calm and tranquil mind.
- Wholeness and Unity: The complete circular shape of the flower's head symbolizes the concept of wholeness and unity.
- Modesty: Despite its showy flowers, Cosmos sulphureus is often associated with modesty due to its unassuming growth habit and the fact that it is easy to care for, symbolizing that modesty can also be striking.
- Joy and Playfulness: The bright colors and playful nature of the blossoms convey a sense of joy, cheerfulness, and a carefree lifestyle.
WaterThe Sulphur Cosmos should be watered thoroughly, allowing the water to soak deep into the soil to encourage strong root development. During the growing season, this should typically be done once every week, depending on weather conditions. If the weather is particularly hot and dry, water the plant twice a week. Each watering session should provide enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of at least an inch, which is roughly equivalent to 0.6 gallons per square foot. Be sure to reduce watering frequency as the weather cools or if rainfall is abundant, to prevent waterlogging.
LightSulphur Cosmos thrives in full sunlight, where it can receive at least six to eight hours of direct sun each day. The ideal spot for this plant is in an open area, away from larger plants or structures that may cast shade. Providing it with ample sunlight will ensure the best growth, flowering, and overall health of the plant.
TemperatureSulphur Cosmos prefers warm temperatures, with ideal conditions ranging between 70°F and 85°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50°F and a maximum temperature not exceeding 100°F. However, they will perform best when nighttime temperatures stay above 60°F.
PruningPruning your Sulphur Cosmos can encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, should be done regularly to promote continuous flowering. You can lightly prune the plants throughout the growing season to maintain their shape, and any larger, structural pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCosmos, commonly called Sulfur Cosmos, thrives in well-draining soil with moderate fertility and a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A good mix would be garden soil, compost, and some perlite or pumice added for aeration. Avoid rich soils that can lead to weak, floppy growth.
RepottingSulfur Cosmos typically do not require frequent repotting, as they are annual plants. They can be sown directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed or started indoors in pots before transplanting.
Humidity & MistingSulfur Cosmos are not particularly humidity-sensitive and can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels. Average ambient humidity is generally sufficient as they are quite drought-tolerant once established.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, and space 12-18 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Cosmos sulphureus (commonly known as Sulphur Cosmos or Yellow Cosmos) begins with seed germination, which is best in warm soil with full sunlight, typically occurring in late spring or early summer. Following germination, seedlings emerge and establish a root system, while stems and leaves develop during the vegetative growth stage. The plant soon enters the flowering stage, producing vibrant orange, yellow, or red blossoms that attract pollinators and can last from mid-summer to fall. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed heads during the reproductive stage, eventually releasing seeds for dispersal. If conditions are favorable, these seeds may overwinter in the soil and germinate the following season, completing the cycle. Throughout its lifecycle, Cosmos sulphureus is known for its ease of growth and low maintenance needs, thriving even in poor soil conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: Cosmos sulphureus, commonly known as Sulfur Cosmos or Yellow Cosmos, is most commonly propagated through seeds. The ideal time for sowing Sulfur Cosmos seeds is in spring after the last frost has passed, ensuring a warm soil temperature for optimal germination. To propagate, scatter the seeds lightly on the surface of well-drained soil and gently press them into the earth or cover slightly with a thin layer of soil, as they need some light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The seeds typically sprout within 7 to 14 days. Thinning the seedlings to about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart will allow the plants enough space to mature and thrive, giving you a gorgeous display of orange and yellow blooms in the summer and early fall.
