Species chocolate cosmos
a deep-maroon flower with maroon-yellow center on a deep-maroon stem

chocolate cosmos

Cosmos atrosanguineus

Chocolate cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus) is a species of fragrant flower native to Mexico, with an undeniable sweet chocolate scent and deep maroon-hued blooms. This remarkable plant requires minimal maintenance, withstanding temperatures from as low as 10F and blooming prolifically from spring to fall months. Its unique trait is the velvety dark tone of its petals, which is rarely seen in flowers. Its sweet, spicy chocolate scent is a delight year round, making chocolate cosmos a must-have for any fragrant garden. It's a plant that will surely impress onlookers of all ages.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

7 - 9

Flowers:

Brownish-red Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

watering

Chocolate cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus) should be watered moderately, about twice a week, depending on the weather and soil condition. During the hot summer months, the plant should be watered more frequently due to increased evaporation from the soil. The soil should always be kept moist but not soggy. If the soil feels dry to the touch, it is time to water. When watering, use lukewarm water and take care to soak the entire root zone. As a general guideline, apply enough water for it to trickle out of the drainage hole.

sunlight

Chocolate cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus) thrives best when planted in full sun to partial shade. This plant species should receive at least 6 hours of direct sun each day, but being careful not to overexpose it to too much sun over long periods of time. During the summer, it is best to keep the plant in an area with morning and mid-day sun, providing some protection from the hotter, afternoon sun. In cooler climates, however, it can tolerate full sunlight all day long. Make sure to keep an eye on your Chocolate Cosmos and adjust its sun exposure depending on where it is planted and what the weather is like.

pruning

Chocolate cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus) is a beautiful and fragrant plant species that requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and to encourage healthy growth. Generally, it should be pruned in the spring, just before the beginning of its blooming season. For the best results, lightly trim off any old or dead blooms, as well as any overly long stems. Any diseased or damaged foliage should also be removed to encourage healthy, new growth. For plants that have become quite overgrown or misshapen, a more heavy pruning may be required. For these plants, prune back some of the branches and stems to a few inches above the base to promote new growth and a more desired shape. Lastly, prune away any stems that extend too far away from the main shape of the plant. In general, prune your chocolate cosmos back to the desired shape regularly and lightly for the best results.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Chocolate cosmos typically start flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Chocolate cosmos typically start flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map