Cosmos sulphureus 'Cosmic Orange' – Fiery orange flowers for a colorful summer border

Cosmos sulphureus 'Cosmic Orange' is a spectacular annual summer flower known for its vibrant orange flowers and fast, robust growth. This variety brings energy and color to borders, cutting gardens, and wildflower beds. Thanks to its long flowering period, vigorous growth, and attractiveness to bees and butterflies, 'Cosmic Orange' is an ideal choice for gardeners seeking a striking, sunny summer plant.

Botanical characteristics

Cosmos sulphureus, native to Mexico and Central America, is distinguished by its fine, feathery leaf structure and bright, warm flowers. The 'Cosmic Orange' variety blooms with intense orange flowers 5–7 cm across, which have a yellow center and immediately attract pollinators. The plants grow compact to mid-height, usually around 30 cm, making them versatile in borders and mixed plantings.

The fine, airy foliage contrasts beautifully with the fiery flowers and provides a natural, cheerful look that will brighten up almost any garden.

Long lasting flowering and robust growth

'Cosmic Orange' blooms from June until the first frost and offers a long, consistent flowering period. Regularly removing spent flowers encourages the plant to form new buds, so your garden can enjoy a vibrant orange color for months to come.

Cosmos sulphureus is known for its rapid emergence and robust growth, making it ideal for gardeners who want immediate results and are looking for an easy-care summer plant.

Location and cultivation

This cosmos variety is easy to sow and grows well in a variety of soil types. It's suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Growing tips:

• Sow indoors from March–April or directly outdoors after mid-May.

• Choose a sunny location for optimal flowering.

• Use well-drained soil; the plant tolerates drought better than wet soil.

• Keep a planting distance of 25–30 cm for optimal air circulation.

• Water sparingly; once established the plant is drought tolerant.

• Compact, sturdy stems usually make support unnecessary, even in windy conditions.

Thanks to these properties, 'Cosmic Orange' grows excellently in cutting gardens, natural borders and flower meadows.

Attractive to bees and butterflies

Cosmos sulphureus 'Cosmic Orange' actively attracts bees, butterflies, and bumblebees. Its open flowers make nectar and pollen easily accessible, contributing to biodiversity and the well-being of local pollinators. This cosmos is a valuable addition to ecologically friendly and insect-friendly gardens.

Ideal for cut flowers

With sturdy stems and striking orange flowers, 'Cosmic Orange' is perfect as a cut flower for colorful summer bouquets. The flowers have a long vase life and are suitable for both modern and rustic arrangements. Regular picking also encourages more abundant and long-lasting blooms.

Applications in the garden

Cosmos sulphureus 'Cosmic Orange' is versatile and fits into various garden designs:

• Cottage garden: Combines beautifully with yellow, red, and dark pink annual summer bloomers for a cheerful look.

• Natural borders: The airy foliage and fiery flowers create a harmonious, vibrant look.

• Pick-a-pick gardens: Excellent for picking thanks to their sturdy stems and long-lasting flowering period.

• Flower meadows: Bring warm colours and movement to mixed plantings.

• Modern borders: The bright orange flowers provide a striking accent.

This plant adds energy, warmth and cheerfulness to any garden and creates a beautiful contrast with both pastel and dark shades.

Summary

Cosmos sulphureus 'Cosmic Orange' is a vibrant, long-blooming summer flower that adds a radiant touch to any garden with its fiery orange blooms. Its robust growth, long-lasting blooms, and attractiveness to pollinators make it ideal for borders, cutting gardens, and natural plantings. For gardeners looking for a low-maintenance, colorful plant from June until the first frost, this cosmos is an excellent choice.