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Description
Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler, commonly known as Cosmos, is a popular annual plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to Mexico and Central America and is widely cultivated in gardens all over the world. Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler is known for its bright and showy flowers that bloom in a range of colors, including pink, red, orange, and white. These flowers have a distinctive shape, with a central disk surrounded by ray petals that give them a daisy-like appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Cosmos |
Appearance
Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler is a bushy plant that can grow up to 4 feet tall. It has finely divided leaves that are fern-like in appearance and a slender stem that supports the flowers. The flowers of this plant are large and showy, with a diameter of up to 4 inches. They come in a range of colors, including pink, red, orange, and white, and have a distinctive shape with a central disk surrounded by ray petals. The flowers bloom in mid-summer and continue to bloom until the first frost.
Care Guide
Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler is a relatively easy plant to care for and is suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week or more frequently during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8.
- Sunlight: Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom profusely.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 2-11 and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellow leaves and webbing on the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves. Prevent the disease by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler is native to Mexico and Central America and grows in a range of habitats, including meadows, fields, and roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate a range of soil and light conditions. This plant is widely cultivated in gardens all over the world and is often used as a bedding plant, border plant, or cut flower.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the roots and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I deadhead Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler?
A: Deadhead the spent flowers regularly to encourage the plant to produce more blooms. You can deadhead every few days or as needed.
Q: How can I propagate Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler?
A: You can propagate this plant by collecting the seeds from the spent flowers and planting them in the soil. You can also take stem cuttings and root them in water or soil.
Q: Is Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler toxic to pets?
A: No, this plant is not toxic to pets or humans.
Related Plants
- Cosmos Sulphureus
- Cosmos Bipinnatus Picotee
- Cosmos Bipinnatus Candy Stripe
References
- “Cosmos Bipinnatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280676.
- “Cosmos Bipinnatus Dazzler.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp590.
- “How to Grow and Care for Cosmos.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac, www.almanac.com/plant/cosmos.
