(Cosmos bipinnatus cvs.) KOZ-mose by-pin-AY-tus Genus:  Cosmos

Cosmos are branching annuals with ferny foliage and pink, crimson, or white flowers that work well in the back of a border. Although introduced in 1799, cosmos did not beome popular for the garden or as the subject of breeding efforts until the early 1900s. The rest is now history. The variety 'Sensation' won the All-American Selection Award of Merit in 1936 for its clear colors of pink and white, on early-blooming, 3- to 4-foot-tall plants. 'Purity' is the glistening white form of cosmos in the 'Sensation' series. 'Sea Shells' has quilled florets. The Sonata Series cultivars are dwarf plants only growing to about a foot or two tall.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Old-fashioned, reliable annual with pretty flowers and ferny foliage. Easy from seed.

Care: 

Full sun and moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Deadhead, but leave a few flowerheads to self-seed if desired. May need staking.

Propagation: 

Sow seed at 61°F in mid-spring, or sow in situ in late spring.

Problems: 

Stem canker, powdery mildew, Rhizoctonia stem rot, and sometimes gray mold, can cause problems. Aphids also occur.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Self Seeds, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage Bloom Time Early Fall, Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Pink, White Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Screening Style Cottage Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Annuals