(Cosmos sulfureus 'Cosmic Red') KOZ-mose sul-FUR-ee-us Genus:  Cosmos The intense scarlet red blooms and yellow centers of this bedding plant will stop you in your tracks. ‘Cosmic Red’ blooms all summer and looks great at the front of the border and in containers. As with other cosmos cultivars, grow this plant in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. The already hypnotic color will intensify as light levels increase. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Cosmos are loved by butterflies. Cultivar of a Mexican native plant. Moderately drought and heat tolerant. Care:  Grow in full sun and moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Deadhead to prolong flowering, and also leave some seeds to self sow. Propagation:  Sow seed in situ in late spring or at 61°F in mid-spring. Problems:  Stem canker, powdery mildew, Rhizoctonia stem rot, gray mold, aphids.

Overview

Height 6 in. to 12 in. Spread 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Fast Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Self Seeds, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Summer, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Red, Yellow Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers Style Cottage Garden, Formal Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Tolerance Drought Tolerant Type Annuals