Chocolate Cosmos

Cosmos atrosanguineus

• Position: full sun
• Soil: moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: June to September
• Hardiness: half hardy

These velvety, dahlia-like, chocolate-maroon flowers have a delicious aroma, reminiscent of the best Belgian chocolates. One of our recommended plants, they're particularly suitable for a sunny, exotic garden or a planting scheme based on 'hot' colours. 

• Garden care: In autumn after the foliage has died back, reduce the stems to within 5cm (2in) of the roots. Lay in a tray of soil or compost and over-winter in a frost-free environment until early spring.