Cosmos Seeds, Xanthos

star-filled
4.1
12 Reviews
Sku:
#FL153
Min. seed count:
30
$4.00

Description

(Cosmos bipinnatus). “Xanthos” means “yellow” in Greek, hinting at the pale ivory to soft butter-yellow tones of this cosmos. No wonder this one-of-a-kind variety won a Fleuroselect medal! The single flowers are very large and elegantly showy. Dwarf plants, early and productive, are equally valuable in the landscape, in containers on porches and patios, or cut. 

  • Annual
  • 60-90 days to maturity
  • 6-8 hours of full sun
  • Sprouts in 7-14 days
  • Seed Depth: 1/8-1/4"
  • Plant Spacing: 10"
  • Ideal Temperature: 70-75 F
  • Frost Hardy: No

 

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Xanthos cosmos is a unique heirloom variety that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators while being highly adaptable and easy to grow. drought tolerant once established, this variety thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage continuous blooms throughout the season. Avoid excessive fertilization, as it can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.

When to Grow

Plant Xanthos cosmos only after all danger of frost has passed and when temperatures reach 70-75 F. The soil should be at least 60 F warm. This variety is not frost-hardy, so be sure to check your local area’s last frost date before planting. Flowers typically appear 60-90 days after sowing and will continue blooming through summer and into early fall until the first frost. Learn more about your region’s frost dates by checking out our blog post, ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow cosmos seeds directly in the garden after the last frost or start indoors 3-4 weeks earlier to extend the growing season. Plant seeds 1/8-1/4 inch deep, as they require some light to germinate. Space plants about 10 inches apart to ensure good airflow and enough room for growth. Germination usually takes 7-14 days. For the best flowering, choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

How to Grow

Xanthos cosmos performs best in light, well-draining, average to poor soil. Rich soil can lead to more leaves and fewer blooms. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings to prevent leggy growth. This is a compact variety that generally doesn’t need staking. Avoid excessive moisture and humidity or cool temperatures.

How to Save

  • Cosmos are insect pollinated, and there may be some crossing between varieties in the garden. You can enjoy the mixing or use caging techniques and hand pollination to avoid crossing.
  • Saving seeds from cosmos is easy: simply allow the heads to brown and dry on plants and collect seeds. Store in a cool, dry, dark place over winter.

FAQ

Is Xanthos cosmos suitable for beginner gardeners?
Yes, cosmos in general is very easy to grow, making it a great choice for beginners. It needs little maintenance and grows well in a variety of conditions.

Does Xanthos cosmos attract pollinators?
Yes, this variety is excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and other insects to the garden.

How can I make Xanthos cosmos bloom longer?
Regular deadheading (removing spent flowers) will encourage more blooms and prolong the flowering season.

delivery
FREE SHIPPING IN THE U. S. A. Alternate domestic shipping options available at checkout
Cosmos Seeds, Xanthos
star-filled
4.1
Customer reviews (12)

Similar Products

$4.00
x