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Description
Cosmos Caudatus, also known as the “Stinking Toe” or “Ulam Raja,” is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand. The plant has a strong odor, which is why it is called the “Stinking Toe.” Its leaves and stems are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including diarrhea and fever.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Kingdom| Phylum| Class| Order| Family| Genus|| :———– | :———- | :———- | :——– | :———| :———– | :————-|| Eukaryota| Plantae| Tracheophyta | Magnoliopsida | Asterales | Asteraceae | Cosmos |
Appearance
Cosmos Caudatus is an annual plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has long, slender stems with alternate leaves that are pinnately divided into narrow, pointed segments. The leaves are green, and the flowers are small and yellow. The plant produces small, brownish-black seeds that can be used for culinary purposes.
Care Guide
Cosmos Caudatus is an easy plant to care for, and it can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Cosmos Caudatus thrives in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cosmos Caudatus is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Some common pests that can affect this plant include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cosmos Caudatus is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open fields, forests, and disturbed areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Cosmos Caudatus indoors?
A: Yes, Cosmos Caudatus can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of sunlight.
Q: Can I eat the leaves of Cosmos Caudatus?
A: Yes, the leaves of Cosmos Caudatus are edible and are commonly used in traditional Southeast Asian cuisine.
Q: How often should I fertilize Cosmos Caudatus?
A: You should fertilize the plant every two to three weeks during the growing season.
Q: Is Cosmos Caudatus easy to grow?
A: Yes, Cosmos Caudatus is an easy plant to care for and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
Related Plants
– Cosmos bipinnatus- Cosmos sulphureus- Cosmos atrosanguineus- Cosmos parviflorus
References
– “Cosmos Caudatus,” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. – “Stinking Toe,” Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plant Products. – “Growing Cosmos,” University of Illinois Extension.
