Cosmos atrosanguineus Chocamocha ('Thomocha'PBR)

RHS Plant Profile
chocolate cosmos [Chocamocha]

Synonyms

Cosmos atrosanguineus 'Thomocha'PBR
Cosmos 'Chocamocha'

Herbaceous Perennial

A tuberous perennial to 30cm, more compact than the species and with a stronger chocolate scent. Foliage is narrow, rather bluish green, and the bowl-shaped, late-summer flowers are dark brownish-red

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Cosmos can be annuals or perennials with simple or pinnately divided leaves and large, long-stalked daisy-like flowers in summer
Name Status
Trade

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Mulch in autumn; in cold areas lift tubers before first frosts and keep frost-free over winter

Propagation

See sowing seeds indoors

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Deadhead to prolong flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to foot rot and grey moulds