Contents
Description
Cosmos Parviflorus, also known as small-flowered cosmos, is a herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South America but has now spread to many other parts of the world. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with thin stems and leaves that are feathery and pinnately compound. The flowers are small and daisy-like, with a diameter of about 1 inch, and can be pink, white, or crimson in color. The plant blooms from mid-summer to fall and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cosmos |
Appearance
Cosmos Parviflorus has a delicate and airy appearance, with its thin stems and feathery leaves. The leaves are green and can be up to 4 inches long, with each leaflet being about 1 inch long. The flowers are small and daisy-like, with a diameter of about 1 inch, and can be pink, white, or crimson in color. They are borne on long, slender stems that can be up to 3 feet tall. The plant blooms from mid-summer to fall and produces an abundance of flowers that can cover the entire plant.
Care Guide
Cosmos Parviflorus is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of your small-flowered cosmos:Water: Cosmos Parviflorus prefers well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during dry periods.Fertilization: Cosmos Parviflorus does not require much fertilizer but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season.Soil: Cosmos Parviflorus grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Cosmos Parviflorus requires full sun to thrive.Hardiness Zones: Cosmos Parviflorus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cosmos Parviflorus is relatively pest and disease-free but can be affected by the following:Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellow stippling on the leaves and webbing on the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Fungal Diseases: Cosmos Parviflorus can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Cosmos Parviflorus is native to South America but has now spread to many other parts of the world. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cosmos Parviflorus a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Cosmos Parviflorus is an annual plant.Q: How tall does Cosmos Parviflorus grow?
A: Cosmos Parviflorus can grow up to 3 feet tall.Q: What is the blooming period of Cosmos Parviflorus?
A: Cosmos Parviflorus blooms from mid-summer to fall.Q: What is the preferred habitat of Cosmos Parviflorus?
A: Cosmos Parviflorus prefers well-drained soil and full sun and can grow in meadows, fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Cosmos Parviflorus:
- Cosmos Bipinnatus
- Cosmos Sulphureus
- Cosmos Atrosanguineus
- Cosmos Caudatus
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/cosmos/cosmos-flower.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a474
- https://www.almanac.com/plant/cosmos
