Cosmos, Rubenza (Organic)
Cosmos bipinnatus.
A dynamic flower that changes color as it matures, from a deep wine maroon to a muted rose, with many shades in between. Single flowers with yellow centers appear atop ferny foliage. Upright plants grow to about 3 ½’, making Rubenza shorter than most cosmos so they do not need staking. Begins flowering early and continuously until frost, long stems make for a good cut flower. Winner of a Fleuroselect Novelty Award in Europe, but humans aren’t the only ones to appreciate these lovely flowers; many beneficial insects enjoy them while in bloom and birds happily munch on the seeds. This is one we want to grow every year.
Direct sow ½” deep after danger of frost, or sow indoors for transplant starting 6 weeks before last frost. Thin or transplant to 12.” Prefers 60-70°F soil temp. Germination in 10-14 days.
Seed Saving
Collect seeds from seedheads that are fully dry. Shell by hand or by dancing, and winnow to clean. Finish air-drying if necessary before sealing in airtight container. Some cross-pollination may occur, isolate from other varieties of the same species by ¼ mile.
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