Cosmos bipinnatus Sonata White

Cosmos bipinnatus Sonata White is an annual plant native to Mexico with very finely cut foliage. Throughout the summer it bears continuous blooms of large, simple and airy flowers measuring 6 to 8 cm (3.1 in) in diameter, with a wide cup of immaculate white with a yellow centre. This early variety is compact, allowing for cultivation in flowerbeds and large containers. It is easy to grow in moderately moist to dry, well-drained and not too rich soil, in a sunny site for optimal flowering.

Cosmos bipinnatus, more commonly known as Garden Cosmos or cosmea, is an annual species in the Asteraceae family (formerly Compositae). This plant is found in Central America, from Costa Rica to the southern United States, passing through Mexico. It thrives in open areas, particularly disturbed habitats such as rocky areas or road edges. Cultivated for a long time in its native area and beyond, it has escaped from gardens and significantly expanded its range, especially in warm and sunny climates. The long, downy stems are adorned with finely cut leaves about ten centimeters long, and can sometimes reach up to 2 m (6 in 7 ft) under optimal conditions. The flowers are typical of the family and are actually compound clusters consisting of tubular flowers (in the center), which will produce seeds, and ligulate flowers (the "petals") delicately notched at the tip, which serve to attract pollinators. Cosmos bipinnatus Sonata White belongs to the Sonata series, characterised by semi-compact and branching plants, reaching about 60 cm (23.6 in) in height and 30 cm (11.8 in) in width. Robust and floriferous, Sonata White produces large flowers, often reaching 7 cm (2.8 in) in diameter, with a pure white colour and a golden yellow centre.

Cosmos bipinnatus Sonata White prefers full sun and is resistant to light frosts. Provide it with a moderately moist to dry, well-drained substrate that is not too rich. In soil that is too rich in nitrogen, the plant tends to produce dark green foliage on elongated and less rigid stems, and flowering tends to be reduced. It is used in gardens to quickly decorate flower beds and borders, or to enhance large containers. It is also suitable as cut flowers. To support flowering, remove faded blooms as they appear. Only plant young plants in the ground when the risk of late frosts has passed. Sowing can be done in trays in late winter. Be advised, young leaves are enjoyed by slugs! Cosmos Sonata White will form a short-lived but charming association with other plants that thrive in warm and slightly dry soils, such as purple toadflax, feather grass, Buenos Aires verbena, or 'Gold Star' rudbeckia.

Please note that our young plants in mini-plugs are professional products intended for experienced gardeners: upon receipt, transplant and store them under shelter (veranda, greenhouse, frame) at a temperature above 14C° for a few weeks before planting outside once all risk of frost has passed.