Cosmos bipinnatus 'Candy Stripe'
This seed strain bears white flowers with rose pink edges and striping. It stands out for variable picotee patterns that read vividly in summer light. It performs best in full sun with well‑drained, average soil. Bloom continues from summer to frost across much of North America. Plants are upright and airy with fine foliage. Grow it as a frost‑tender annual and expect reseeding in favorable sites.
At‑a‑glance
Group/Class: picotee selection; annual cosmos
Height × spread: 30 to 40 in (75 to 100 cm) × 20 to 36 in (50 to 90 cm)
Bloom window: summer to frost
Color & flower form: white petals edged and striped deep pink; single daisies
Fragrance: 0 none
USDA hardiness: grown as annual in all zones; frost tender
Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
Cut‑flower notes: harvest at first open bloom; stems are light but usable; typical vase life 4 to 7 days with preservative.
Pet safety: safe; generally non‑toxic to pets; ingestion may cause mild stomach upset.
How it differs
- Distinct picotee and stripe pattern instead of solid colors.
- Medium‑tall habit compared with dwarf series.
- Single flowers that show clear yellow centers.
- Light texture suits meadow‑style plantings.
Strengths
- Long flowering season with deadheading.
- Pollinator friendly selection.
- Adapts to average garden soils if drainage is good.
- Good visibility in bouquets and borders.
Care in one minute
- Provide full sun and well‑drained soil of low to moderate fertility.
- Water as needed once established; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Pinch once to branch; stake if exposed; deadhead to keep blooms coming.
- Direct sow after frost or transplant starts; thin to allow air flow.
- Allow some seed to ripen if natural reseeding is desired.
Watch‑outs
- Tall stems can lean after storms; staking may help.
- Aphids and slugs may be present.
- Grey mold risk in long wet spells.
- Over‑rich soil can lead to lush growth with fewer blooms.
Best uses (tags)
cutting; borders; meadows; pollinators
Provenance note
RHS describes ‘Candy Stripe’ as an upright, half‑hardy annual with white petals edged and striped in deep pink; breeder details are not listed.
References
- Royal Horticultural Society – Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Candy Stripe’
- Royal Horticultural Society – Cosmos advice page
- NC State Extension – Cosmos overview
- Veterinary Partner (VIN) – Safe and toxic garden plant images
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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