Cosmos

A detail image of Cosmos.

Common Names: Cosmos

Botanical names: Cosmos, (KAHZ-mohs) From the Greek “kosmos” for "beautiful".

Availability: June through August

Vase life: 4 to 7 days

Storage temperatures: 36 - 38 degrees Fahrenheit

Ethylene Sensitive: No

Description: Solitary flowers with a single row of large delicate petals surrounding a yellow center. Flower heads are up to four inches across.

Color: White, yellow, red, pink and shades, surrounding a yellow center

Botanical facts: The name is from the Latin word kosmos meaning beautiful. Cosmos is native to Mexico and related to chrysanthemums and dahlias.

Design notes: A wonderful summer filler flower.

Purchasing hints: Purchase when at least one blossom per stem is open.

Conditioning: Remove all foliage that will be below the water line. Cut under water with a sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of warm water and commercial floral food for two hours before storage or usage.

Additional notes: Cosmos flowers symbolise order, harmony and balance. The flowers also represent peace, tranquillity, innocence, modesty and joy. In the Victorian era cosmos flowers symbolised joy in love and in life.

Video Demonstration:

Summer's Floral Bounty Centerpiece