Cosmos 'Xsenia'

Xsenia Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus 'Xsenia')

Xsenia cosmos delights with a palette of shifting shades, from deep magenta and rich raspberry to vibrant purple, gradually softening to a delicate apricot as each bloom ages. Petite, whimsical flowers perch gracefully atop upright stems, creating a garden display that feels alive with movement and colour. Their chameleon-like quality makes them a captivating companion to softer-toned cosmos, vintage zinnias, or creamy amaranths, while contrasting beautifully with rich burgundy hollyhocks or deep violet phlox. Xsenia blooms evoke a romantic, rustic charm that blends effortlessly into cottage gardens, cutting gardens, or meadow-inspired borders.

Known also as Mexican Aster, these enchanting plants attract bumblebees and other pollinators, filling the air with gentle activity. The compact yet healthy growth habit allows them to weave seamlessly among other textured foliage and bloom varieties. The subtle iridescence of each flower adds depth and intrigue, making every glance in the garden a new discovery. Perfect for lovers of colour, whimsy, and the quiet magic of ever-changing blooms, Xsenia cosmos invites a touch of playful elegance to any floral palette.

DETAILS:

QTY: 25

TYPE: Annual
 
SITE: Full sun

DEPTH: Cover Lightly

GERMINATION: 7-10 days at 20-22°C

HEIGHT: 24 - 28"

MATURITY: 75 - 90 Days

SPACING: 12"

PINCH: 12"

HOW TO GROW:

Transplanting (recommended): Sow seeds into seedling containers 5–7 weeks before your average last frost date, covering seeds lightly with fine soil or vermiculite. Keep moist and provide good light. Harden off seedlings for 7-10 days before transplanting outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Direct Seeding (alternative): Sow seeds directly outdoors after your last frost date, once the soil temperature is consistently above 16∘C. Cover seeds lightly with soil.

Soil & Fertilizing
Cosmos thrive in well-draining soil and actually prefer poor to average soil conditions. Rich soil or excessive fertilizer will encourage lush foliage at the expense of flowers. For best blooms, avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers. If needed, a light application of a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer (such as 5-10-10) once or twice during the season is sufficient. Overfeeding will result in fewer flowers and leggy plants. These low-maintenance blooms are happiest when neglected a little—just be sure the soil doesn't stay soggy.

Pinching: Pinching back young cosmos plants encourages branching, leading to more flowers and a bushier plant habit. Simply snip off the top inch or two of the main stem once the plant has developed a few sets of true leaves. Tall varieties may also benefit from some wind protection or staking as they grow.

Harvesting/Vase Life: Individual cosmos blooms typically last 4-6 days in a vase. However, each stem is loaded with multiple blossoms that will open sequentially over about a week. For the longest vase life, harvest stems when the flowers are just beginning to unfurl but haven't fully opened. This helps to prevent insect pollination, which can shorten their lifespan. Using a floral preservative in the vase water is recommended.