Cosmos bipinnatus Apricotta | Cut Flower Variety

Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Apricotta’ | Warm Apricot-Pink Blooms for Cutting and Garden Display

Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Apricotta’ is one of the most enchanting cosmos varieties ever introduced — a Fleuroselect Gold Medal winner admired for its glowing apricot and rose tones and subtle metallic golden sheen. The flowers open in soft tangerine shades with a rosy center, deepening to richer pink as they mature, creating a mesmerizing, iridescent color shift that brings warmth and depth to every bouquet.

Tall, free-flowering, and easy to grow, ‘Apricotta’ is an outstanding choice for both professional growers and home gardeners. Its long, elegant stems and airy foliage make it ideal for cut flower production, while its romantic color palette perfectly complements both cool and warm arrangements.

• Botanical name: Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Apricotta’
• Common name: Garden Cosmos, Apricot Cosmos
• Plant type: Annual
• Height: 90–110 cm
• Position: Full sun
• Days to maturity: 75–90 days
• Plant spacing: 25–30 cm
• Pinching: When plants are 20–30 cm tall
• Flower size: 6–8 cm diameter
• Life cycle: Annual
• Pollination: Open-pollinated

Sowing & Germination

• Transplanting: Sow indoors 5–7 weeks before the last frost in trays or plug flats; cover seeds lightly. Harden off and plant outside once frost danger has passed.
• Direct sowing: Sow outdoors after frost, once soil temperature is above 16°C.
• Germination time: 7–10 days at 20–22°C
• Light preference: Full sun
• Support: Tall varieties may benefit from horizontal support (e.g., Hortonova netting).

Soil & Growing Conditions

• Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
• Watering: Regular but not excessive — cosmos thrive in lean soils
• Fertilization: Minimal; too much nitrogen reduces flowering
• Hardiness: Annual, not frost-tolerant

Harvest & Vase Life

• Harvest stage: Cut when petals are just opening but not yet fully flat; for double types, harvest when half-open
• Vase life: 5–6 days
• Tip: Deadhead or cut regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the summer

Why Grow ‘Apricotta’?

• Award-winning color – warm apricot, pink, and gold tones with an iridescent glow
• Tall, branching plants that bloom profusely from midsummer to frost
• Excellent for cutting – long stems, great vase life, and strong garden performance
• Perfect harmony of warm and cool hues in floral design
• Easy and reliable, even for beginners