Xanthos

Cosmos

55d to harvest

Feathery, airy blooms rise like warm sparks above the garden—Xanthos Cosmos opens into luminous, petal-rich flowers that sway with every breath of wind. Expect a delicate, satiny texture and a vivid, show-stopping presence that holds its charm in arrangements, making it a favorite for long-lasting cut stems. Grow Xanthos for a breezy, cloudlike display that turns beds and borders into living color from early summer through fall.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 30th
Last Frost	Apr 20th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Apr 20th
Harvest Begins	Jun 14th
Harvest Ends	Oct 20th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	55
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	55
Min Night Temp (°F)	45
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Red Gem Marigold

Candy Cane Mix Zinnia

Sonata Mix Cosmos

Sensation Dazzler Cosmos

Zahara Starlight Rose Zinnia

Lemon Gem Marigold

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Cosmos bipinnatus, and how can I control it?

Cosmos bipinnatus is often troubled by aphids, especially on tender new growth and flower buds. Rinse plants with a strong water jet, then spray insecticidal soap (follow label directions) and repeat every 5–7 days until aphid numbers drop. If you see powdery-white growth on leaves, remove badly affected foliage and increase airflow (thin plants and avoid overhead watering) to slow the spread.

How can I tell when Cosmos bipinnatus is ready to harvest?

Harvest flowers when the bloom is fully open and the petals are crisp and brightly colored, usually about 55 days from sowing under good conditions. For seed harvest, leave seed heads on the plant until they turn brown and feel dry, then collect them before they shatter. Cut flowers regularly to keep plants producing fresh blooms throughout the season.