The intense scarlet red blooms and yellow centers of this bedding plant will stop you in your tracks. ‘Cosmic Red’ blooms all summer and looks great at the front of the border and in containers. As with other cosmos cultivars, grow this plant in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. The already hypnotic color will intensify as light levels increase.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsCosmos are loved by butterflies. Cultivar of a Mexican native plant. Moderately drought and heat tolerant.
CareGrow in full sun and moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Deadhead to prolong flowering, and also leave some seeds to self-sow.
PropagationSow seed in situ in late spring or at 61°F in mid-spring.
ProblemsStem canker, powdery mildew, Rhizoctonia stem rot, gray mold, aphids.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Gilmour 811673-1001 Sprinkler
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Water Right PSH-100-MG-1PKRS 400 Series, 100-Foot, Olive Green
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Gilmore Rubber Hose Washer 10pk
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Genus : Cosmos
- Plant Height : 6 to 12 inches
- Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
- Plant Type : Annuals
- Tolerance : Drought Tolerant
- Moisture : Dry to Medium
- Bloom Time : Early Summer, Late Summer, Summer
- Growth Rate : Fast
- Light : Full Sun
- Uses : Ground Covers
- Maintenance : Moderate
- Flower Color : Red, Yellow
- Characteristics : Self Seeds
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.