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Description
Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red, also known as sulphur cosmos, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central America but has become a popular garden plant worldwide due to its vibrant blooms and ease of cultivation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cosmos |
Appearance
Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red grows up to 5 feet in height and features bright orange-red flowers that bloom from midsummer to fall. The flowers have a diameter of 2-3 inches and are surrounded by dark green foliage that is finely divided. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can spread up to 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red does not require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clayey.
- Sunlight: Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red thrives in full sun to partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 2-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red is generally pest and disease-resistant but can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant’s sap, causing distorted growth and yellowing of leaves. Control by spraying with insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests cause yellowing and stippling of leaves. Control by spraying with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. Control by improving air circulation and spraying with a fungicide.
Habitat
Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red is native to Mexico and Central America and grows in a variety of habitats, including open forests, fields, and disturbed areas. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions, from dry to moist soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red an annual or perennial plant?
A: Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red is an annual plant that completes its life cycle in one growing season.
Q: Can Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red be fertilized?
A: Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red requires light fertilization once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the ideal growing temperature for Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red?
A: Cosmos Sulphureus Cosmic Red thrives in warm temperatures between 70-80°F.
Related Plants
- Cosmos bipinnatus
- Cosmos atrosanguineus
- Cosmos sulphureus
References
- “Cosmos sulphureus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 26 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a594>.
- “Cosmos sulphureus.” University of Florida. Accessed 26 May 2021. <https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/cosmos.html>.
- “Cosmos sulphureus.” Plant Village. Accessed 26 May 2021. <https://www.plantvillage.org/en/topics/cosmos-sulphureus/diseases_and_pests_description_uses_propagation>.
