Cosmos 'Versailles Flush'

Versailles Flush Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus 'Versailles Flush')

Versailles Flush cosmos captivates with large, ruffled blooms that range from soft pinks to creamy whites, each flower adorned with delicate stripes and streaks that add a painterly touch to the garden. The combination of single and semi-double blossoms creates a lively, textured display, perfect for romantic borders, cottage-style beds, or whimsical cutting gardens. These blooms pair beautifully with dusty mauve zinnias, soft apricot amaranths, or pale lavender cosmos, weaving a palette that feels both rustic and refined.

Also known as Mexican Aster, Versailles Flush draws bumblebees and beneficial insects in abundance, bringing gentle motion and life to every planting. The dynamic patterns and airy elegance of the flowers lend a subtle charm that contrasts wonderfully with deep burgundy hollyhocks, creamy yarrow, or soft green foliage. Ideal for gardeners enchanted by unique colour variations and textural interest, Versailles Flush adds movement, sophistication, and a touch of romantic whimsy to any floral composition.

DETAILS:

QTY: 25

TYPE: Annual
 
SITE: Full sun

DEPTH: Cover Lightly

GERMINATION: 7-10 days at 20-22°C

HEIGHT: 36 - 48"

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.