Get ready to meet the Chocolate Cosmos, the flower that smells like dessert and looks like a dream! With its deep burgundy petals and a fragrance reminiscent of rich, dark chocolate, this botanical beauty is a surefire way to add charm and intrigue to your garden.
Not only does it captivate humans with its delicious scent, but it also lures in hummingbirds, turning your outdoor space into a fluttering paradise. If you’ve ever wished for a flower that brings both beauty and the sweet scent of cocoa, this is the one.
1. A Unique Flower With A Sweet Aroma – Chocolate Cosmos
Dark maroon petals and a golden center make this flower a true visual treat. Chocolate cosmos is named for its enchanting scent, which closely resembles the aroma of chocolate. This unique fragrance is a result of natural compounds that mimic the smell of vanilla and chocolate, making it a gardener’s delight.
The flower’s aroma intensifies in the evening, creating a delightful experience for anyone nearby. Chocolate cosmos blooms from late summer to early fall, adding a warm hue to your garden palette. Its charm lies not only in its appearance but also in its delightful scent.
2. Why Hummingbirds Love Chocolate Cosmos
Hummingbirds are naturally drawn to the vibrant colors and enticing shape of these blooms. Chocolate cosmos boasts rich, dark hues and a tube-like shape ideal for accommodating the long bills of hummingbirds, allowing them easy access to nectar.
The nectar is exceptionally sweet and plentiful, providing hummingbirds with the energy they need for their rapid movements. The flower’s positioning on long, slender stems makes them accessible even in a gentle breeze. With such irresistible features, it’s no wonder these flowers are a favorite among hummingbirds.
3. How To Grow And Care For Chocolate Cosmos In Your Garden
Growing this plant in your garden requires understanding its preferences for full sun and well-drained soil. Plant it in spring after the last frost, ensuring the tubers are buried about 3 inches deep. Water them moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
In colder climates, tubers should be lifted in the fall and stored indoors to prevent frost damage. With proper care, chocolate cosmos will reward you with its stunning blooms and alluring scent throughout the growing season.
4. Best Companion Plants For Chocolate Cosmos
Combining this flower with marigolds and lavender creates a vibrant and ecologically balanced garden. These companion plants not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide benefits like pest control and support for pollinators.
Marigolds deter pests, while lavender attracts beneficial insects, promoting a healthy garden ecosystem. Other companions that attract favorable bugs include zinnias, verbena, sage, coneflowers, etc.
5. Other Species Your Cosmos Will And Will Not Attract
This unique flower captivates a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and even some moths. Its fragrance and nectar-rich blooms are irresistible to these beneficial insects.
However, not all creatures are attracted to it. Slugs and deer tend to avoid this plant due to its strong scent and unpalatable foliage. This makes chocolate cosmos an excellent choice for gardens where these pests are a concern, allowing the flowers to flourish without being devoured.
6. How To Propagate Chocolate Cosmos For More Blooms
Expanding your garden with more of these beautiful flowers is simple with propagation techniques. Division of tubers in early spring is most effective, ensuring each piece has a viable bud. Cuttings can be taken from healthy plants, rooted in water or soil to produce new growth.
Seed collection is possible but less common due to the flower’s sterile nature. By using these methods, you can enjoy a garden filled with the chocolatey aroma and vibrant blooms of Chocolate Cosmos.