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Description
Cosmos Sulphureus, also known as Sulphur Cosmos or Yellow Cosmos, is a beautiful annual flower that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Mexico, but it is now widely grown in gardens around the world for its vibrant yellow-orange blooms. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and it blooms from midsummer to fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cosmos |
Appearance
Cosmos Sulphureus has bright yellow-orange flowers that are about 2 inches in diameter. The flowers have a distinct orange-red center that is surrounded by yellow petals. The leaves are pinnate and can grow up to 8 inches long. They are finely divided and have a feathery appearance. The stems are long and slender, and they can sometimes have a reddish tint. Overall, Cosmos Sulphureus is a beautiful and showy flower that is sure to brighten up any garden.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Cosmos Sulphureus thrives, you should follow these care guidelines:Water: Cosmos Sulphureus prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, and more often during hot and dry weather.Fertilization: Cosmos Sulphureus is not a heavy feeder, but you can give it a boost by fertilizing it with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Cosmos Sulphureus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy, you can amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage.Sunlight: Cosmos Sulphureus thrives in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Cosmos Sulphureus is an annual plant that can be grown in hardiness zones 2-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cosmos Sulphureus is generally a hardy plant that does not suffer from many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To control these pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Cosmos Sulphureus can also develop root rot if the soil is too wet, so be sure to avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Cosmos Sulphureus is native to Mexico, but it can now be found growing in gardens around the world. It thrives in warm climates and is often grown as an annual in cooler areas. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cosmos Sulphureus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cosmos Sulphureus can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.Q: Do Cosmos Sulphureus flowers attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Cosmos Sulphureus flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.Q: Can Cosmos Sulphureus be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Cosmos Sulphureus can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds directly into the soil in the spring after the last frost.Q: How often should I deadhead Cosmos Sulphureus?
A: You should deadhead Cosmos Sulphureus regularly to encourage more blooms. Remove spent flowers as soon as they start to fade.
Related Plants
If you love Cosmos Sulphureus, you may also be interested in these related plants:- Cosmos Bipinnatus- Coreopsis Tinctoria- Rudbeckia Hirta- Gaillardia Pulchella- Zinnia Elegans
References
– “Cosmos Sulphureus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286012.- “Sulphur Cosmos.” National Gardening Association, garden.org/plants/view/781/Cosmos-Cosmos-sulphureus/.
