Cosmos - Cosmos bipinnatus

Common Name :	Cosmos
Binomial Name :	Cosmos bipinnatus
Family :	Asteraceae
Bangla Name :	Cosmos (কসমস)
Photo Taken :	Bangladesh

Botanical Identity

Cosmos bipinnatus, commonly known as Garden Cosmos, Mexican Aster, or simply Cosmos, is a popular ornamental plant prized for its delicate foliage and vibrant, daisy-like flowers. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to Mexico and Central America. Today, it is widely naturalized and cultivated around the world in temperate and tropical regions due to its ease of growth and attractive appearance. The genus name Cosmos means "harmony" or "order" in Greek, reflecting the plant’s balanced, symmetrical form.

Plant Description

Cosmos is an annual herbaceous plant that typically grows between 1 and 2 meters tall. It has finely divided, feathery leaves that give the plant a soft, airy appearance. The stems are slender and may require support if grown in windy areas or rich soils. Cosmos prefers full sunlight and well-drained soils and thrives in hot, dry conditions with minimal care. It is often used in wildflower gardens, borders, and pollinator-friendly landscapes due to its fast growth and long blooming season.

Flowers and Seed Characteristics

The flowers of Cosmos are large, showy, and range in color from white and pink to magenta and deep purple. Each bloom consists of a central yellow disc floret surrounded by broad, petal-like ray florets. These flowers bloom profusely from mid-summer until the first frost and are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. After flowering, the plant produces slender, pointed seeds that resemble tiny pine needles. These seeds are lightweight and easily dispersed by wind, making the plant a prolific self-seeder.

Uses and Garden Value

Although not used medicinally or culinarily to any significant degree, Cosmos bipinnatus is immensely valued for ornamental purposes. Its long-lasting flowers make excellent cut flowers, and its ability to thrive in poor soils makes it ideal for low-maintenance or drought-tolerant gardens. Additionally, its attractiveness to pollinators makes it a key component in biodiversity-supporting garden designs. Easy to grow from seed and requiring little upkeep, Cosmos is a favorite among home gardeners and landscape designers alike.


Photos of this article were taken from Ramna park during February 2016.


Written by Lonely Traveler,
For blog icflora.blogspot.com