Sulphur Cosmos Cosmos sulphureus Ladybird (mixed)
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ABOUT
Cosmos sulphureus Ladybird, more commonly known as Orange Cosmos or Sulphur Cosmos, is a vibrant and eye-catching flowering plant. The plant features an attractive display of daisy-like blossoms that come in a mixture of bright colors typically revolving around fiery shades. The flowers themselves possess a bold central disc, often a deep golden or brownish hue, surrounded by petals that can range from sunny yellow to warm orange and sometimes even reddish tones. The foliage of the Orange Cosmos is delicate and feathery, providing a soft, fern-like backdrop for the more vivid flowers. The leaves are typically medium green in color and add to the overall airy appearance of the plant. The stems are slender but sturdy, holding the blooms aloft with a graceful poise. This particular mix, 'Ladybird', is prized for the aesthetics of its blossoms, which can possess either a solid color or may be playfully splashed with secondary, contrasting hues. The flower heads are smaller than some other cosmos varieties, giving them a dainty and whimsical look. Fully grown, this variety of cosmos presents an elegant and festive display, commonly gracing gardens with its colorful presence throughout the summer until the first frosts of fall.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Sulfur Cosmos, Yellow Cosmos, Orange Cosmos
Common names
Bidens sulphurea, Coreopsis sulphurea, Cosmos aurantiacus, Cosmos bipinnatus var. sulphureus.
ToxicityTo humans
Cosmos sulphureus, commonly called Sulphur Cosmos, is not known to be toxic to humans. Generally, the plant is considered safe, and there are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting Sulphur Cosmos. However, it's always advised to exercise caution and avoid eating ornamental plants since individual reactions may vary due to allergies or sensitivities.
To pets
When it comes to Sulphur Cosmos and pets, this plant is also not known to be toxic to animals. It is not listed among the commonly recognized poisonous plants for pets, like dogs and cats. As with humans, it's best to prevent pets from ingesting the plant as a precaution, but ingestion of Sulphur Cosmos typically does not lead to poisoning or severe adverse reactions in pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-3 feet (30-91 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Cosmos sulphureus is excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden, which aids in pollination of crops and other plants.
- Easy to Grow: Known for its ease of cultivation, it is a fantastic choice for novice gardeners or those who prefer low-maintenance gardening.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it has good drought resistance, making it suitable for xeriscaping and reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: With its vibrant-colored flowers, it brings a burst of color that can uplift the appearance of any garden space.
- Fast Growing: It grows quickly and can provide quick coverage or fill empty spaces in the garden.
- Edible Flowers: The petals are edible and can add a decorative touch to salads and desserts.
- Soil Improvement: It can help improve soil quality by adding organic matter as leaves and stems decompose.
- Long Blooming Period: It has a long flowering season, providing color and interest in the garden from summer to fall.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides a habitat and food source for a variety of wildlife, particularly during the blooming season.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for arrangements with their bright colors and long vase life.
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 can be used in natural dye production; the petals contain pigments that can be used to dye fabrics or paper in shades of yellow and orange.
- The dried petals of Cosmos sulphureus can be incorporated into homemade potpourri mixes to add color and a subtle fragrance to a room.
- The plant can be used in educational settings as a hands-on tool for teaching children about the lifecycle of flowers, from seed germination to pollination and seed dispersal.
- Cosmos sulphureus flowers can be used in art projects, such as pressing for floral art or in the creation of botanical-themed stationery and bookmarks.
- The plant's strong stems make it suitable for use in lightweight garden structures, such as supporting frameworks for other climbers when dried and tied together.
- Flower petals of Cosmos sulphureus can be used as a colorful, biodegradable confetti alternative for outdoor celebrations to avoid littering the environment.
- The vibrant colors of Cosmos sulphureus can be utilized in photography as a backdrop or as an object of macro photography to capture details of the flower.
- The arrangement of Cosmos sulphureus in a cut-flower garden can contribute to natural pest control, as it may attract beneficial insects that feed on garden pests.
- Cosmos sulphureus can be used in companion planting to improve the growth of vegetables, as they can attract pollinators and potentially improve crop yield.
- The seeds of Cosmos sulphureus can be used for bird feed, particularly in the winter when the seeds provide an important food source for seed-eating birds.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cosmos is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cosmos is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Order and Harmony: Cosmos, in Greek, means order, harmony, or the world. This reflects the plant's balanced petal arrangement and its role in bringing a harmonious beauty to the garden.
- Modesty: Due to its unassuming appearance and simple beauty, cosmos is often associated with modesty in the language of flowers.
- Love and Affection: The vibrant colors of the Cosmos sulphureus flowers symbolize deep love and affection, making them a wonderful gift for someone special.
- Peaceful and Joyful Mind: The light and airy nature of the cosmos flower is thought to evoke feelings of serenity and joy, reminiscent of a peaceful, summer meadow.
- Balance and Symmetry: The evenly spaced petals represent balance and symmetry in life, a reminder to maintain equilibrium in our personal lives.
- Wholeness: This plant symbolizes the concept of wholeness, alluding to its perfect symmetrical form which mirrors the harmonious cycle of nature.
WaterSulfur Cosmos, commonly known as the Cosmic Orange or Ladybird Cosmos, prefer consistent moisture but are quite drought-tolerant once established. Water these plants with about 1 inch of water per week, making sure to water the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently to maintain moist soil. However, be cautious not to overwater, as Sulfur Cosmos does not like soggy conditions. A deep watering once a week should be sufficient, and always check the soil before adding more water; it should be dry an inch below the surface.
LightSulfur Cosmos thrives in full sun exposure. Plant them in a location where they can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. These vibrant flowers perform best in an open area unobstructed by trees or buildings that might cast shade. Too much shade can result in weak stems and fewer blooms, so ensure the chosen spot is as sunny as possible for optimal growth.
TemperatureSulfur Cosmos, also known as Cosmic Orange, perform best in temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit and can survive up to a maximum of around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, extreme temperature fluctuations outside of their ideal range can impact their growth and flowering. Ensure they are planted after the risk of frost has passed and before the onset of cold weather in fall.
PruningSulfur Cosmos benefit from deadheading, which is the removal of spent flowers to encourage further blooming. Pruning can be done throughout the blooming season whenever flowers fade. It's also advantageous to cut back the plant by about one-third mid-season if it becomes leggy or sparse. This will often encourage a new flush of growth and revitalized blooming. Regular pruning also helps maintain a tidy appearance and can prevent self-seeding if desired.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCosmos, commonly known as Sulphur Cosmos, thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix of garden soil, compost, and sand or perlite will create the ideal growing conditions, enhancing drainage and fertility.
RepottingSulphur Cosmos typically does not require frequent repotting as it is often grown as an annual. However, if grown as a perennial in pots, repot every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingSulphur Cosmos is not particularly humidity-sensitive and can thrive in average outdoor humidity levels, but it prefers a drier environment rather than excessively humid conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Sulphur Cosmos in a sunny spot and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant Sulphur Cosmos in full sun and well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleCosmos sulphureus, commonly known as Orange Cosmos or Sulfur Cosmos, begins its life cycle with seed germination which typically happens when the soil temperature is warm and after the last frost of spring. After sprouting, the seedlings grow into young plants with green foliage, and as they mature, they develop a strong root system and begin to form buds. The budding phase then leads to flowering, where the vibrant orange, yellow, or red flowers bloom and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Following pollination, the flowers produce seed heads that mature, dry out, and eventually release seeds. These seeds can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, and if conditions are favorable, they can germinate to start a new life cycle. Depending on the climate, Cosmos sulphureus may complete its cycle and die within one season (as an annual plant), or it may reseed and grow again the following year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Cosmos sulphureus, commonly known as Sulfur Cosmos or Yellow Cosmos, is most commonly propagated through seeds. Seed propagation is generally done in spring, after the threat of frost has passed, as Cosmos sulphureus prefers warm temperatures for germination. To propagate via seeds, simply scatter the seeds over the surface of well-drained soil and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil or compost. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs, which typically takes about 7-14 days. Seedlings can be thinned out to stand 12 to 18 inches apart once they've reached a sufficient size to handle. This spacing allows each plant enough room to mature and thrive, providing a vibrant display of the characteristic daisy-like flowers through the summer months.
