annualN. America Native

Apricot Lemonade Cosmos

Cosmos bipinnatus 'Apricot Lemonade'

The Story

Plant Bio

Cosmos bipinnatus 'Apricot Lemonade' is a vibrant annual flower known for its fragrant, delicate blooms and fern-like foliage.

This cultivar features a unique blend of soft apricot and yellow hues in its flowers, providing a lovely pastel palette in garden settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesCosmos Apricot Lemonade adds vibrant color and a cheerful presence to gardens, attracting pollinators and enhancing visual appeal.
Practical UsesIts easy care makes it ideal for low-maintenance gardens and cut flower arrangements.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting local pollinator populations.
SpeciesCosmos bipinnatusGarden Cosmos

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic

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 to maintain soil moisture during propagation.
  3. Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding once seedlings develop their first true leaves.
  4. Water regularly, keeping soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
  6. Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Plant cosmos in full sun and well-draining soil for vibrant, long-lasting flowers.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide full sun for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
  • Water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong roots
  • Deadhead regularly to extend flowering period
  • Use a balanced fertilizer monthly during peak growth
  • Stake taller varieties to prevent wind damage

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don't overcrowd seedlings to ensure proper airflow
  • Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent legginess
  • Avoid cutting back in late fall, as it may damage overwintering plants

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

Bright, airy border with vibrant blossomsWildflower meadow with a splash of colorContainer garden for cheerful, compact display

Companion Plants

Marigolds Zinnias Sunflowers Cosmos bipinnatus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Apricot Lemonade Cosmos questions

What zones can Apricot Lemonade Cosmos grow in?

Apricot Lemonade Cosmos is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Apricot Lemonade Cosmos deer resistant?

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

When does Apricot Lemonade Cosmos bloom?

Apricot Lemonade Cosmos 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 Apricot Lemonade Cosmos need full sun?

Apricot Lemonade Cosmos does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Apricot Lemonade Cosmos drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Apricot Lemonade Cosmos 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.