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Description
Cosmos Sulphureus Bright Lights, also known as Sulphur Cosmos, is a beautiful annual plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central America, but it can now be found all around the world due to its popularity as an ornamental plant. The plant is known for its bright yellow, orange, and red flowers that bloom from midsummer to fall, making it a perfect addition to any garden or landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cosmos |
Appearance
The Cosmos Sulphureus Bright Lights plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has feathery, green leaves that are 3-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The plant produces numerous flowers that are 2-3 inches wide and have bright yellow, orange, and red petals. The flowers have a prominent yellow or brown center disk that is surrounded by numerous thin, tubular ray flowers. The plant blooms from midsummer to fall and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Cosmos Sulphureus Bright Lights plant is easy to care for and can thrive in most soil types. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained to avoid root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant can grow in any well-drained soil, but it prefers sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive, but it can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 2-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cosmos Sulphureus Bright Lights plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues:
- Aphids: Aphids can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Spider mites: Spider mites can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Cosmos Sulphureus Bright Lights plant is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in open areas, fields, and disturbed sites. The plant prefers warm and sunny climates and can grow in most soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does the Cosmos Sulphureus Bright Lights plant bloom?
A: The plant blooms from midsummer to fall.
Q: Can the Cosmos Sulphureus Bright Lights plant grow in shade?
A: The plant requires full sun to thrive, but it can tolerate some shade.
Q: How often should I water the Cosmos Sulphureus Bright Lights plant?
A: Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained to avoid root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Cosmos Sulphureus Bright Lights plant?
A: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 2-11.
Related Plants
- Cosmos bipinnatus
- Cosmos atrosanguineus
- Cosmos sulphureus
- Cosmos caudatus
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Cosmos sulphureus. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a572
- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Sulphur cosmos. Retrieved from https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/sulphur-cosmos/
- University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Sulphur cosmos. Retrieved from https://extension.illinois.edu/hortihints/0909d.html
