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Description
Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee, also known as Mexican aster, is a popular annual flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Mexico and South America and is widely cultivated for its attractive flowers that bloom from early summer to fall. The plant grows up to 3-4 feet tall and produces large, daisy-like flowers that come in a range of colors, including white, pink, magenta, and crimson. The petals of the flowers are fringed and have a distinctive dark pink or red edge, giving the plant its unique look.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Angiospermae |
Order | Asterales |
Family | Asteraceae |
Genus | Cosmos |
Appearance
Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee has a tall, slender stem with pinnate leaves that are dark green and finely divided. The flowers are large, measuring up to 4 inches in diameter, and have a bright, eye-catching appearance. The petals are fringed and have a prominent dark pink or red edge, which contrasts with the lighter color of the rest of the petal. The center of the flower has a prominent yellow disk. The plant blooms from early summer to fall and is a popular choice for cut flower arrangements due to its attractive appearance.
Care Guide
Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee is relatively easy to care for and is tolerant of a range of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, making sure that the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If the soil is heavy, mix in some sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee requires full sun to thrive. Make sure that the plant gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 2-11 and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but prefers cooler temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can sometimes be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scales: These small, hard-shelled insects can be controlled with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause gray mold on the plant’s leaves and flowers. It can be controlled by removing affected plant parts and improving air circulation around the plant.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a powdery white coating on the plant’s leaves. It can be controlled by removing affected plant parts and improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee is native to Mexico and South America, where it grows in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, and can tolerate a range of temperatures. The plant is widely cultivated throughout the world as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: Can Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee be grown as a perennial?
A: No, the plant is an annual and will not survive the winter in most climates.
Q: Can Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee be grown from seed?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds directly in the garden in the spring after the last frost, or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
Related Plants
- Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Dazzler’
- Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Candy Stripe’
- Cosmos sulphureus ‘Klondyke Mix’
- Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Sonata Mix’
References
- “Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282077.
- “Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed October 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/400302/Cosmos-bipinnatus-Sensation-Picotee/Details.
- “Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation Picotee.” University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Accessed October 2021. https://ucanr.edu/sites/UrbanHort/files/80174.pdf.