Cosmos sulphureus aka Orange Cosmos

Taxonomy

Cosmos sulphureus, also known as sulfur cosmos and yellow cosmos, is a popular ornamental plant in the sunflower family Asteraceae. This species is native to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America, but has naturalized in other parts of North and South America, as well as in Europe, Asia, and Australia. However, it has been declared invasive by the United States Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Council. The flowers of all Cosmos attract birds and butterflies, including the monarch butterfly. Mexican Aster or Cosmos bipinnatus is a herbaceous species that belongs to the daisy family Asteraceae. This plant is native to Mexico and tropical America and grows 2'4 feet (70 cm) tall on the erect stem. Its green leaves are cut into deep threadlike segments and saucer-shaped flowers, its main identification feature. These plants are cultivated in a wide variety of pink, yellow, and white colors, and the branched stem is often thick to sporadically covered in fine trichrome. "Cosmos" is derived from a Greek word that means harmony. Sulphur Cosmos is a relatively rare houseplant that belongs to the Cosmos genus and is native to Mexico to Central America. It is easy to grow and needs regular watering to thrive, preferring long-lasting, direct light and well-draining soil. A gentle, organic fertilizer can be used throughout the peak growing season.

Common names

Orange Cosmos, Sulphur Cosmos, Yellow Cosmos

How to care for Orange Cosmos

Difficulty

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Orange Cosmos is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Water

Orange Cosmos should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Orange Cosmos loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Orange Cosmos requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Sulphur Cosmos is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Growth-pattern

Clumping is a defining characteristic of the Orange Cosmos, with new growth appearing from the soil surrounding the primary plant.


More info:
Wikipedia