dye material: flower
orange
dye material: flower
orange
Cosmos sulphureus is a child of the sun, native to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. Its vivid blooms in orange, yellow, and fiery red capture the heat of its origins. Shorter and bushier than its cousin bipinnatus, it grows effortlessly in poor, dry soils where other flowers might wither, thriving in full sun and tolerating drought. Reaching up to 120 centimeters, it makes a striking border plant and a favorite for pollinators, especially bees and migrating monarchs. Unlike bipinnatus, its foliage is coarser, and it exudes a bold presence in the garden, scattering seeds generously if left to dry on the stalk. In some cultures, Cosmos sulphureus is linked to energy and endurance, a symbol of blooming brightly through adversity. To plant it is to invite sparks of color and resilience into the garden—an unflinching reminder that radiance often thrives in the harshest conditions.
!Wildlife attraction! These flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a valuable addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.
planting period
early spring
(after the last frost date)
harvest period
late spring-late fall
soil
pH 6-7
prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil yet tolerates a wide range of soiltypes
sun
full sun
water
every 2-3 days in well-drained soil
established Cosmos sulphureus is somewhat drought-tolerant and can withstand dry periods, yet appreciates regular watering
planting
0.6 cm deep
30-45 cm apart
germination
If you choose to sow the seeds directly outdoors, scatter them on the soil surface and lightly press them into the soil. If starting indoors, sow the seeds in individual pots or trays filled with seed-starting mix.
maintenance
mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants can help retain soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature.
deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers (deadhead) regularly. Further this helps preventing the plant from selfseeding and redirect its energy into producing more flowers.
fertilization: If you notice slow growth or pale foliage over the plant , you can apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Herefore follow the manufacturer‘s instructions.
flower harvest
Deadhead the fully developed flowers regularly to increase continuous blooming, leading to more dye matter within one blooming cycle as well as preventing self-seeding. Therefore, place two fingers below the flower crown and apply soft pressure upwards till the flower snaps off close to the stem. Use the flowers right away or place them onto a paper towel to dry before storing.
