The most defining feature of Cosmos Sea Shells Red (Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Sea Shells Red’) is its tubular fluted petals that flare at the edges, resembling miniature trumpets or marine seashells. The petals radiate outward from a classic yellow center.
The flowers are a vibrant carmine or ruby red on the inside, often with softer lavender-pink tones on the exterior of the shell. The plant features airy, fine, and feathery bright green foliage that provides a delicate backdrop for the blossoms. The vibrant flowers are highly attractive to bees and butterflies, making them an excellent addition to pollinator gardens.
Growing Cosmos Sea Shells Red
Indoor Sowing: Late Winter and Early Spring.
Direct Sowing: Spring.
- If you want a head start, you can plant Cosmos indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last spring frost in trays or pots with a good seed-starting mix.
- Sow on the surface of the soil and cover with a thin layer of soil.
- Keep moist until germination which takes about 30 days.
- You can also sow your Cosmos Maroon Seeds straight into the garden, or on large containers.
- Pinch out the tips when your seedlings reach a few cm.
- Stake when the plants reach about 60cm.
- They can grow to a meter in height or more.
- Deadheading prolongs your flowering season.











