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.