Apollo™ Carmine Cosmos

Cosmos bipinnatus 'Apollo Carmine' is a cultivar in the Apollo series, recorded here as product 70092117. RHS describes it as a half-hardy annual with deep red to purple flowers, yellow centers, and finely divided green foliage; its profile gives a broad 0.5–1 metre size range as well as a narrative height estimate to about 65 cm, so mature dimensions vary among listings. ## Garden Use Plant it in a sunny border, cottage garden, container, or cutting bed for summer-through-autumn color. Its long-stemmed daisy-like flowers suit informal arrangements, and cosmos generally supports pollinators and butterflies. RHS lists chalk, clay, loam, and sandy soils for this cultivar. ## Growing Conditions Choose full sun and moist but well-drained soil. Sow after frost danger has passed and keep the seedbed lightly moist during germination. Once established, cosmos can handle occasional dry soil, but regular moisture helps support continued flowering. In wind-exposed locations, check whether stems need support. ## Seasonal Display Deep red-to-purple petals surround a prominent yellow center and can reach about 10 cm across. Finely divided leaves give the plant an airy texture. RHS gives a broad 0.5–1 metre range for both height and spread; allow generous room for the plant to fill out. Sources: [RHS profile for 'Apollo Carmine'](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/353834/cosmos-bipinnatus-apollo-carmine-apollo-series/details) and [NC State Extension Cosmos guide](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cosmos-bipinnatus/). ## Maintenance Deadhead faded flowers to prolong the display. Leave selected seedheads to ripen for self-sowing or remove them before they scatter if you prefer a tidier bed.