Mandarin Cosmos

Mandarin is a compact, bushy Cosmos sulphureus selection with double orange flowers and fine, fern-like foliage. The Royal Horticultural Society describes it as a long-flowering, half-hardy annual reaching about 30 cm; PanAmerican Seed lists a 10–12-inch height and 6–8-inch spread for its grower crop. ## Garden placement Use this low mound at the front of a sunny bed, along a path, or in a container where its warm orange flowers are easy to see. The compact habit also makes it useful as a bright annual accent among taller plants. PanAmerican Seed lists spring through autumn flowering in production and describes Mandarin as more uniform and compactly mounded than competing varieties. ## Growing conditions Provide sun or partial sun and moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil. As a half-hardy annual, plan to grow it for the season and replant as needed. ## Maintenance Deadhead regularly to encourage a longer flowering display. Avoid overwatering; keep the soil draining freely and remove spent growth as the season ends. [RHS: Cosmos sulphureus ‘Mandarin’](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/525723/cosmos-sulphureus-mandarin-d/details) · [PanAmerican Seed: Mandarin grower facts](https://www.panamseed.com/utility/CultureSheetPDF.aspx?pagename=culture.aspx&txtphid=019500001003116&type=Ann)