annualN. America Native

Cosmos Versailles White

Cosmos bipinnatus 'Versailles White'

The Story

Plant Bio

Tall annual with feathery leaf structure and daisy-like flowers.

Versailles White is known for its pure white blooms, which stand out in gardens and attract pollinators.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVersailles White cosmos adds a touch of elegance with its pristine white blooms, perfect for brightening borders and containers.
Practical UsesAttracts pollinators like butterflies and bees, supporting local ecosystems.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for beneficial insects and promotes biodiversity in garden settings.
SpeciesCosmos bipinnatusGarden Cosmos

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly once roots develop, typically after 4-6 weeks.
  3. Plant in full sun with moderate watering to promote healthy growth.
  4. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
  5. Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
  6. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong flowering period.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost for natural, vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
  • Deadhead flowers to promote continuous blooming
  • Provide full sun for optimal flowering
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during peak season
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t neglect deadheading spent blooms
  • Refrain from planting in overly shady spots
  • Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen in late season
  • Avoid disturbing roots during peak flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Harvest
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Airy flower borderWildflower meadow accentColorful container display

Companion Plants

Marigolds Sunflowers Zinnias Cosmos sulphureusNicotiana

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cosmos Versailles White questions

What zones can Cosmos Versailles White grow in?

Cosmos Versailles White is hardy in USDA Zones 5, 6, 7, 8, 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cosmos Versailles White deer resistant?

Yes — Cosmos Versailles White is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Cosmos Versailles White bloom?

Cosmos Versailles White typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cosmos Versailles White need full sun?

Cosmos Versailles White does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Cosmos Versailles White drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cosmos Versailles White handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Cosmos Versailles White with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.