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Annual Biennial

Cosmos sulphureus Ladybird (mixed)
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

yellow cosmos [Ladybird Mixed]

A compact selection to 30-50cm high and wide. Single to semi-double flowers in shades of orange, yellow and red are borne, from summer into autumn, above the divided foliage

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Orange Red Yellow Green
Autumn Orange Red Yellow Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Cosmos can be annuals or perennials with simple or pinnately divided leaves and large, long-stalked daisy-like flowers in summer

Name status

Trade

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

See sowing seeds indoors

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Wildlife gardens
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Cut flowers
Pruning

Deadheading should be carried out regularly to prolong flowering

Pests

Aphids and slugs may be a nuisance

Diseases

May be affected by grey moulds

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