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Candy Stripe
picotee selection; annual cosmos
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)
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
