Cosmos Seeds, Xsenia

star-filled
2.9
2 Reviews
Sku:
#FL119
Min. seed count:
30
$4.00

Description

(Cosmos bipinnatus). A stunning riff on one of our favorite pollinator flowers. Xsenia was awarded the prestigious Fleuroselect Novelty Award in 2018, specifically appreciated for its unique flame-pink color that changes in an almost sepia effect as the flowers mature over the season. These dazzling flowers are a bit more refined in their presentation than other cosmos varieties. Compact plants reach just over 2 feet tall; the 2.5-inch blooms have petals that are tightly whorled around their bright yellow eye.

  • Annual
  • 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: 65-85 F
  • Frost Hardy: No

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Xsenia cosmos is an easy-to-grow, heat-tolerant annual. This heirloom variety thrives in poor to moderately fertile soil and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Keep the plants deadheaded and make sure that they receive 6-8 hours of full sun daily.

When to Grow

Sow the seeds after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach at least 60 F. Alternatively, you can start them indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost. If you are not sure how to find your local frost dates, check out our blog post ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/8-1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil. Do not completely cover over with dirt, as cosmos needs light to germinate. Space plants about 10 inches apart to ensure proper airflow and prevent overcrowding. Germination typically takes 7-14 days at temperatures between 60-75 F.

How to Grow

Xsenia cosmos is drought tolerant once established and should be watered only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can result in weak stems and fewer blooms. Avoid fertilizing too much, as excess nitrogen can cause foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Staking is not essential but can benefit plants, helping to prevent the central stem from splitting from the weight of blooms.

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

Can Xsenia cosmos be grown in containers?
Yes, cosmos can be grown in large containers with well-draining soil. Make sure the container is deep enough to support its root system.

Why is my Xsenia cosmos growing tall but not flowering?
Excess nitrogen in the soil can cause excessive leafy growth at the expense of blooms. Avoid over-fertilizing and make sure that the plant gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

How long does Xsenia cosmos bloom?
It blooms continuously from midsummer until the first frost, especially if regularly deadheaded.

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Cosmos Seeds, Xsenia
star-filled
2.9
Customer reviews (2)

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