Water
Needs regular watering, especially during dry spells, to maintain consistent soil moisture. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging.
Established plants show some drought tolerance.
Also known as Cosmos · Foxtail · Kenikir
Cosmos caudatus is a fast-growing annual herb with delicate, pinnately divided leaves and vibrant pink to lavender daisy-like flowers. It is an ornamental and edible, non
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Requires full sun for best flowering and growth, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
80% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods.
50% intensity
Well-draining, moderately fertile soil
50% intensity
Prefers warm conditions, ideally between 20-30 °C. Sensitive to frost.
70% intensity
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light feeder; a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth is sufficient, especially in pots.
30% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Needs regular watering, especially during dry spells, to maintain consistent soil moisture. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging.
Established plants show some drought tolerance.
Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote continuous flowering and prevent excessive self-seeding. Trim back leggy stems to maintain shape and vigor.
Easily propagated from seeds. Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost or start indoors 4-6 weeks before transplanting. Seeds germinate quickly in warm conditions.
Can also self-seed readily, making it easy to establish.
As an annual, repotting is not typically required for mature plants.
If starting indoors, transplant seedlings into larger pots once they have developed a few true leaves before moving them to their final outdoor location.
Ensure the new pot provides adequate space and good drainage for healthy root development.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of King's Salad (Cosmos caudatus)
Where King's Salad (Cosmos caudatus) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cosmos |
| Species | Cosmos caudatus |
Similar in genus Cosmos
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data