Cosmos flowers, for the most part, are annuals, which means they complete their life cycle within one year. This means that if you grow cosmos from seed, they will only bloom for one season and then die off. However, there is one exception to this rule – the chocolate cosmos, scientifically known as Cosmos atrosanguineus.
The chocolate cosmos is a unique type of cosmos that is grown from a tuber, similar to a dahlia. Unlike other cosmos varieties, which need to be reseeded every year, the chocolate cosmos is a perennial. This means that once you plant the tuber, it will come back year after year, providing you with beautiful blooms without the need for resowing seeds.
I have personally grown chocolate cosmos in my garden, and I must say, they are a delight to have. The deep, burgundy-colored flowers have a rich chocolate fragrance, which is quite unique and captivating. The fact that they are perennial adds to their appeal, as I don’t need to worry about sowing seeds every spring. I simply leave the tubers in the ground, and they regrow and bloom again the following year.
While chocolate cosmos is a perennial, it is important to note that it may require some special care to ensure its survival through the winter. In colder climates, where frost occurs, the tubers can be lifted and stored indoors during the winter months to protect them from freezing. This will help ensure their longevity and allow you to enjoy their blooms for many years to come.
Cosmos flowers are mostly annuals, meaning they do not come back every year. However, the chocolate cosmos is a wonderful exception to this rule, as it is a perennial that can be grown from tubers. By planting and caring for the tubers, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of chocolate cosmos blooms year after year, without the need for resowing seeds.
