Cosmos sulphureus 'Cosmic Red' – Fiery red flowers for a summer border

Cosmos sulphureus 'Cosmic Red' is a striking summer annual known for its intense red flowers and fast, robust growth. This variety brings a warm and vibrant look to borders, cutting gardens, and wildflower meadows. Thanks to its long flowering period, vigorous growth, and attractiveness to bees and butterflies, 'Cosmic Red' is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a vibrant splash of color in the summer.

Botanical characteristics

Cosmos sulphureus, native to Mexico and Central America, is prized for its fine, feathery leaf structure and striking flowers. The 'Cosmic Red' variety blooms with bright red flowers 5–7 cm across, with a contrasting yellow center that attracts pollinators. The plants grow compact to mid-height, between 30 cm, making them versatile for borders, cutting gardens, and mixed plantings.

The fine, airy foliage forms a beautiful contrast with the fiery flowers and provides a natural, cheerful look that brightens up almost any garden.

Long lasting flowering and robust growth

'Cosmic Red' blooms from June until the first frost, offering a long, consistent flowering period. Regularly removing spent flowers stimulates new flower buds, allowing your garden to enjoy a rich red palette for months to come.

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

Location and cultivation

This cosmos variety is easy to sow and grows well in a variety of soil types, making it 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 good air circulation.

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

• Compact, sturdy stems usually make support unnecessary.

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

Attractive to bees and butterflies

Cosmos sulphureus 'Cosmic Red' 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 fiery red flowers, 'Cosmic Red' 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 Red' is versatile and fits into various garden designs:

• Cottage garden: Combines beautifully with yellow, orange, and pink annual summer bloomers for a vibrant 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 flowers provide a striking accent and a dynamic look.

This plant adds warmth, energy and cheerfulness to any garden and forms a beautiful contrast with pastel colours or green borders.

Summary

Cosmos sulphureus 'Cosmic Red' is a vibrant, long-blooming summer flower that adds a powerful accent to any garden with its fiery red 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.