Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato

Description

Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato, also known as Rubenza, is a stunning variety of the Cosmos family. This annual flower boasts large, deep red blooms with a dark center, making it a popular choice for gardeners and florists alike. With a height of 24-36 inches and a spread of 12-18 inches, it is ideal for borders, containers, and cut flower arrangements. Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato blooms from mid-summer to fall, providing a vibrant pop of color in any garden.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato has feathery, fern-like foliage that grows up to 4 inches long. Its large, single or double blooms can reach up to 4 inches in diameter and are a deep red color with a dark center. The flower petals are slightly curved and have a delicate texture, adding to their overall beauty. Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato is a fast-growing plant that can reach a height of 2-3 feet and a spread of 1-2 feet. It is a popular choice for cutting gardens, as the blooms last up to 7 days in a vase.

Care Guide

Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some tips for caring for your Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato:

• Water: Water your Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. This plant can tolerate some drought, but it will bloom more profusely if it is well-watered.
• Fertilization: Feed your Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. This will help promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
• Soil: Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or poorly draining, consider amending it with compost or planting your Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato in a raised bed.
• Sunlight: Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato prefers full sun, but it can tolerate some light shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but it can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to the following:

• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be found on the undersides of leaves and can cause stunted growth and distorted foliage. Control aphids with insecticidal soap or by spraying them off with a strong stream of water.
• Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing leaves and a fine webbing on the plant. Control spider mites with insecticidal soap or by spraying them off with a strong stream of water.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on leaves and stems. Control powdery mildew with a fungicide labeled for use on ornamental plants.

Habitat

Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato is native to Mexico and Central America, but it is now widely cultivated around the world. It prefers warm, sunny locations with well-draining soil and can be found in fields, meadows, and gardens. In its native habitat, Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato is an important source of nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Question and Answer

Q: Can I grow Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato in a container?

A: Yes, Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato can be grown in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes. Use a high-quality potting mix and water your plant regularly.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato?

A: Feed your Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Q: Can I grow Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato from seed?

A: Yes, Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato can be grown from seed. Sow seeds directly in the garden after the last frost or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date.

Q: How do I deadhead Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato?

A: To deadhead Cosmos Bipinnatus Rubinato, simply remove the spent blooms by cutting the stem just below the flower. This will encourage the plant to produce more blooms.

Related Plants

• Cosmos Bipinnatus
• Cosmos Sulphureus
• Cosmos Atrosanguineus
• Cosmos Caudatus

References

• “Cosmos Bipinnatus ‘Rubinato'” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d624
• “Cosmos Bipinnatus ‘Rubinato'” Gardenia. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/cosmos-bipinnatus-rubinato
• “Cosmos Bipinnatus ‘Rubinato'” National Garden Bureau. https://ngb.org/year-of-the-cosmos/