Illuminate Your Garden with Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Xsenia’
Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Xsenia’ is a captivating annual that introduces a unique blend of terracotta orange and rose pink hues to your garden. Its single, daisy-like blooms, approximately 8cm (3 inches) across, exhibit vibrant pink petals with a soft peach-centred glow. In full sunlight, the petals appear bright pink, while in the evening or on cloudy days, the orange tones intensify, reminiscent of a setting sun. This variety reaches a height and spread of 50–60cm (20–24 inches), making it ideal for borders, containers, and as a cut flower.
Growing Conditions
‘Xsenia’ thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and performs best in locations with good air circulation to prevent disease. As a half-hardy annual, it is sensitive to frost; therefore, sowing and planting should be timed to avoid exposure to cold temperatures.
Planting Guide
- Sowing Indoors: Sow seeds indoors from March to May at a depth of 3mm (⅛ inch) in quality seed compost. Cover seeds with a fine sprinkling of vermiculite. Maintain a temperature of 18–21°C (64–70°F). Germination typically occurs within 7–15 days.
- Transplanting: When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots. Gradually acclimatise plants to outdoor conditions over 7–10 days before planting out after the last frost.
- Direct Sowing: Alternatively, sow seeds directly outdoors in their flowering position after the risk of frost has passed. Thin seedlings to achieve a final spacing of 30cm (12 inches) apart.
Care & Maintenance
- Watering: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as Cosmos prefer drier conditions once established.
- Feeding: Feeding is generally not necessary, as rich soils can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season.
Flowering & Cut Flower Tips
‘Xsenia’ blooms from June to September, providing a long-lasting display. The unique coloration of its flowers makes it a standout choice for cut flower arrangements. For the best vase life, harvest flowers when they are fully open, preferably in the morning when temperatures are cooler.
Garden Impact
This variety attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity. Its distinctive blooms add a touch of exotic beauty to borders and containers, and it pairs well with other summer flowers like zinnias and marigolds for vibrant displays.
Additional Notes
Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Xsenia’ was awarded the Fleuroselect Approved Novelty Award, recognising its unique colouration and garden performance. At the end of the season, plants can be removed and composted. In milder climates, Cosmos may self-seed, providing volunteer plants the following year.
