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Description
Cosmos Bipinnatus Xanthos, also known as Yellow Cosmos, is a herbaceous annual plant native to Mexico. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is popular for its bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cosmos |
Appearance
The Yellow Cosmos has fern-like leaves that are divided into narrow segments. The leaves are green and can grow up to 6 inches long. The plant produces numerous flowerheads that are 2-3 inches in diameter and have bright yellow petals. The flowers have a prominent central disc and are borne on long stems that can reach up to 3 feet tall.
Care Guide
Yellow Cosmos is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:- Water: Yellow Cosmos prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.- Soil: Yellow Cosmos prefers fertile, loamy soil. If your soil is poor, amend it with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.- Sunlight: Yellow Cosmos thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Yellow Cosmos is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Yellow Cosmos is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by the following:- Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant’s sap and can cause distorted growth and yellowing leaves. Control aphids by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and fine webbing on the plant. Control spider mites by spraying the plant with water or using a miticide.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the plant’s leaves. Control powdery mildew by improving air circulation around the plant and using a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Yellow Cosmos is native to Mexico but is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks worldwide. It prefers warm, sunny locations and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Yellow Cosmos in a container?
A: Yes, Yellow Cosmos can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and has good drainage.
Q: Do I need to deadhead Yellow Cosmos?
A: Deadheading is not necessary, but it can promote more blooms and prevent the plant from self-seeding.
Q: Can I use Yellow Cosmos as a cut flower?
A: Yes, Yellow Cosmos makes a great cut flower and can last up to a week in a vase.
Q: How often should I fertilize Yellow Cosmos?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Related Plants
– Cosmos sulphureus- Cosmos bipinnatus- Cosmos atrosanguineus
References
– “Cosmos Bipinnatus Xanthos.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a668.- “Cosmos Bipinnatus Xanthos.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/124891/Cosmos-bipinnatus-Xanthos/Details.
