The Life cycle of the Cosmos begins with pollination of a mature flowering plant, this pollination then leads to the growth of mature seeds. These seeds then disperse around and enter the soil, it can take one-three weeks for these seeds to germinate. These plants grow to the mature adult stage in which they are ready to flower which can take them two months to bloom. They then can flower until the first frost of the fall.
The life history of the Cosmos flower is stated that Spanish Priests had planted these flowers in their mission gardens in Mexico. This is because they believed that their evenly placed petals led them to call it "Cosmos" as it is a Greek word that describes harmony or an ordered universe. The pretty flower also represents simplicity, joy, beauty, and balance.
The cosmos has been revealed to have antioxidant properties. This flower has also been known to protect against oxidative DNA damage and diseases. For the best results the white, pink, and orange flowers are to be used. It’s also been discussed that consuming this flower gives you a good feeling of lightness, flexibility, and movement.
This flower tastes sweet, like nectar, it’s delicate and palatable. The petals of the flowers can be added to your salads for a nice treat. Essential oils can also be extracted from the flower to be used. Bees and butterflies are the known pollinators for the cosmos flower. These flowers often deal with pests such as aphids and thrips.not every flower of the cosmos is edible however.
***Only certain species are edible such as Cosmos sulphureus and Cosmos caudatus***
This flower was originally used by the natives to help treat some diseases such as malaria( shown behind). It was also used as something to calm stomach aches or just a general easy to get snack that is abundant. A fun fact is that these flowers have been known to attract pretty butterflies and beautiful birds.
References
Boeckmann, Catherine. “Cosmos.” How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Cosmos Flowers, Almanac, 23 Apr. 2023, www.almanac.com/plant/cosmos. Accessed 17 May 2023.
“Cosmos Flower Essence.” Pacific Northwest Essences, pnwessences.com/products/cosmos-flower-essence. Accessed 17 May 2023.
“Cosmos.” Plant Study: Cosmos, Flower Essence Society, 2005, www.flowersociety.org/cosmos-plant-study.htm#:~:text=Cosmos%20is%20an%20annual%2C%20completing,frost%2C%20or%20spring%20to%20autumn. Accessed 17 May 2023.
Puts, Marijke. Cosmos Flower Meaning: Understanding the Exotic Cosmos Symbolism, Houseplant Special, 23 Jan. 2023, houseplantcentral.com/language-of-flowers/cosmos-flower-meaning/#:~:text=Cosmos%20flowers%20are%20associated%20with,and%20is%20native%20to%20Mexico. Accessed 17 May 2023.
Credits:
Created with images by rasica - "Star deep space scene with nebula as futuristic background" • Soonthorn - " colorful many cosmos flowers blooming in the field " • Piman Khrutmuang - "Pink cosmos flower isolated on white background with clipping path"