10 Beautiful Types Of Cosmos Flowers For Your Home And Bouquets

The elegant cosmos flower, a symbol of peace, order, and harmony, is a favourite choice for floral arrangements. Its delicate, daisy-like appearance adds a touch of graceful charm to any space, making it perfect for brightening up a home in Singapore. 

This guide explores ten beautiful types of cosmos flowers, from the classic pinks and whites to the unique chocolate-scented variety. We will also share their special meanings and expert tips on how to care for them in a vase, ensuring you can enjoy their beauty for as long as possible.

Understanding the Cosmos Flower

Before choosing your favourite type, it helps to know a little more about this lovely bloom. Its background and symbolism add another layer of appreciation to its simple beauty, making it a more meaningful addition to your home or a more thoughtful gift for a loved one.

Origin and Characteristics

Originally from Mexico, the cosmos flower is sometimes referred to as the Mexican Aster. It is known for its slender, tall stems and satiny petals that surround a bright yellow centre. These delicate stems allow the flower heads to sway gently, adding a sense of movement and whimsical charm to any bouquet. 

Their open, inviting faces and fine, feathery foliage create an airy and light feeling, preventing arrangements from looking too heavy or dense. This makes them a versatile flower that works well both on its own and when mixed with other, bolder blooms.

Symbolism and Meaning

The name "cosmos" comes from the Greek word kosmos, which means order, harmony, and the universe in balance. This name was given due to the flower's neatly arranged and evenly spaced petals. As a result, the flower symbolises peace, tranquillity, modesty, and innocence. 

It is also the official birth flower for those born in October, making it a particularly special gift during that month. Furthermore, the cosmos is the flower that represents the second wedding anniversary, symbolising the balanced love and harmony of a couple.

10 Types of Cosmos Flowers for Floral Arrangements

Cosmos flowers come in a surprisingly wide range of shapes, sizes, and colours. While they all share a similar delicate nature, each variety offers a unique charm. Here are ten popular types you are likely to find in beautiful floral arrangements.

1. The Classic Garden Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus)

This is the most well-known and widely used species of cosmos in floristry. When you picture a cosmos, you are most likely thinking of Cosmos bipinnatus. It features a classic, open-faced bloom with single-layer petals that have a slightly crinkled, papery texture. Its traditional daisy-like shape is timeless and suits almost any style of home decor, from modern minimalist to rustic country. 

This species is available in a gentle colour palette that includes soft pinks, pure whites, and deep crimsons, making it incredibly versatile for all sorts of bouquets. It serves as an excellent supporting flower, adding height and gentle colour without overpowering other blooms.

2. 'Purity' Cosmos

As its name suggests, the 'Purity' cosmos is a specific variety known for its brilliant, snow-white petals and sunny yellow centre. It is a cultivar of Cosmos bipinnatus and is highly sought after for its clean and elegant appearance. The pure white colour carries strong symbolism of innocence, sincerity, and new beginnings. 

This makes the 'Purity' cosmos an exceptionally popular choice for wedding bouquets, christening arrangements, and sympathy flowers. In home decor, a vase filled with only 'Purity' cosmos can create a stunningly simple yet sophisticated centrepiece that brings a sense of calm and serenity to any room.

3. 'Sensation' Series

The 'Sensation' series is one of the most popular and celebrated groups of cosmos flowers. These are prized by florists for their impressively large blooms, which can reach up to 10 centimetres across. This generous size means that just a few stems can make a significant impact in a vase. The series features a mix of classic cosmos colours, including shades of pink, rose, carmine, and pure white. 

Their large, single-layered petals and tall, sturdy stems make them excellent choices for creating full, lush-looking bouquets. They are often used as "filler" flowers, but their striking size allows them to stand confidently on their own as well.

4. 'Double Click' Cosmos

For those who love a more textured and fuller look, the 'Double Click' cosmos is a perfect choice. This variety features semi-double or fully double blooms, meaning they have an extra layer of petals that gives them a fluffy, ruffled appearance. This charming texture makes them look more like a small peony or a carnation than a typical cosmos. 

The 'Double Click' series adds wonderful volume and a touch of romance to any floral design. They are available in a beautiful range of colours, including white, soft pink, and a deep cranberry, sometimes with lovely bi-coloured effects that add depth to a bouquet.

5. 'Cupcakes' Cosmos

The 'Cupcakes' cosmos is a truly unique and modern variety. Its most distinctive feature is its fused petals, which form a single, cup-shaped bloom. This bowl-like structure, with a frilly ring of smaller petals in the centre, is unlike any other flower. 

The delicate, paper-like texture of the petals further enhances its special appearance. This trendy and unusual variety is perfect for contemporary floral arrangements and serves as a fantastic conversation starter. Available in soft whites and blush pinks, the 'Cupcakes' cosmos brings a playful yet sophisticated touch to any bouquet.

6. 'Seashells' Cosmos

Another wonderfully unique variety is the 'Seashells' cosmos. The petals of this flower are not flat; instead, they are tubular and fluted, rolled in on themselves to resemble colourful seashells scattered on a beach. This distinctive shape creates incredible texture and visual interest in an arrangement. 

The 'Seashells' variety often displays beautiful bi-colour effects, with the inside of the rolled petal being a slightly darker shade than the outside. A bouquet featuring these cosmos is guaranteed to catch the eye and is perfect for anyone who appreciates the more unusual and artistic side of nature.

7. 'Rubenza' Cosmos

The 'Rubenza' cosmos is known for its remarkable colour transformation. When the flower first opens, its petals are a deep, rich ruby red. As the bloom matures over a few days, this colour gracefully fades to a soft, antique rose pink. This changing colour palette adds a dynamic and evolving beauty to any vase arrangement. The deep initial colour makes 'Rubenza' ideal for creating romantic, dramatic, or vintage-themed bouquets. It pairs beautifully with cream-coloured roses or silvery foliage to create a look of timeless elegance.

8. 'Picotee' Cosmos

The 'Picotee' cosmos looks as if it has been delicately hand-painted by an artist. This variety features crisp white or pale pink petals that are finely edged with a contrasting colour, usually a vibrant crimson or magenta. This delicate, coloured border, known as a "picotee" edge, highlights the shape of each petal and gives the flower a sharp, defined, and highly decorative appearance. 

It is a stunning choice for adding fine detail and a pop of colour to predominantly white or pastel arrangements, making the entire bouquet feel more special and intricate.

9. Sulphur Cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus)

While most cosmos varieties are found in shades of pink and white, the Sulphur Cosmos breaks the mould with its fiery and warm colour palette. This species offers vibrant shades of sunny yellow, blazing orange, and scarlet red. The flower heads of the Sulphur Cosmos are typically a bit smaller than those of Cosmos bipinnatus, but they make up for it with their intense, dazzling colours. 

These blooms are perfect for creating cheerful and energetic bouquets. They are an excellent choice for "get well soon" arrangements, birthday celebrations, or any occasion that calls for a burst of happiness and positivity.

10. Chocolate Cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus)

The Chocolate Cosmos is perhaps the most intriguing and sought-after variety. It is famous for its deep, velvety petals that range in colour from dark burgundy and rich maroon to a shade so dark it appears almost black. But its most remarkable feature is its scent. On warm days, the Chocolate Cosmos emits a faint but distinct fragrance of vanilla and dark chocolate. 

This unique combination of sophisticated colour and delicious scent makes it a luxurious and premium choice for special occasions like Valentine's Day or anniversaries. It is a truly unforgettable flower that adds a touch of mystery and opulence to any arrangement.

How to Choose the Best Cosmos Bouquet

With so many beautiful varieties, choosing the right cosmos bouquet is a delightful experience. Consider the occasion and the message you wish to convey with your choice of colours and styles.

Occasions for Cosmos

Cosmos flowers are wonderfully versatile and suitable for many different occasions. As the October birth flower, a bouquet of cosmos is a thoughtful and personal gift for anyone celebrating a birthday in that month. 

They are also the flower for a second wedding anniversary, symbolising the ongoing harmony in the relationship. Because of their cheerful and peaceful nature, they are also perfect "just because" flowers, ideal for brightening someone's day or adding a touch of beauty to your own home.

Colour Combinations

The airy nature of cosmos allows them to be paired beautifully with many other flowers. For a look of classic elegance, try mixing the deep, velvety Chocolate Cosmos with soft, cream-coloured roses. 

For a bright and summery feel, combine the fiery orange and yellow of the Sulphur Cosmos with bold sunflowers or yellow solidago. A gentle bouquet of pink and white 'Sensation' cosmos mixed with baby's breath is perfect for celebrating a new baby, a wedding, or Mother's Day.

Care Tips for Cut Cosmos Flowers

To enjoy your beautiful cosmos bouquet for as long as possible, conscious flower care is needed. With the right preparation and maintenance, you can keep them looking fresh and lovely in Singapore’s warm climate.

Preparing Your Vase

The first step to a long-lasting bouquet is to ensure your vase is perfectly clean. Any lingering bacteria can quickly spoil the water and cause the flowers to wilt prematurely. In Singapore's humid environment, bacteria can multiply quickly, so it is important to wash your vase thoroughly with soap and water and rinse it well before use. Choose a vase that is tall enough to support the slender stems of the cosmos.

Conditioning the Stems

Properly preparing the flower stems allows them to absorb water more efficiently, which is key to their freshness.

• Start by removing any leaves on the lower part of the stems. Any foliage left below the waterline will rot and contaminate the water.
• Using a sharp pair of scissors or a floral knife, cut about two to three centimetres off the bottom of each stem.
• Make the cut at a 45-degree angle. This creates a larger surface area for the stem to drink water.
• Place the freshly cut stems into your clean vase filled with lukewarm water immediately. You can also add a packet of flower food, which provides essential nutrients.

Placement in the Home

Where you place your vase can have a big impact on how long your cosmos flowers last. Keep the arrangement away from direct sunlight, such as a windowsill that gets strong afternoon sun, as this can cause the delicate petals to fade and wilt. It is also wise to keep them away from ripening fruit, which releases ethylene gas that can speed up the ageing process of flowers. 

In Singapore, many homes are air-conditioned, but try to avoid placing your vase directly in the path of a strong air-con draft, as this can dehydrate the blooms.

Daily Maintenance

A little daily attention will go a long way. The most important task is to change the water in the vase every one to two days. Fresh water prevents the build-up of bacteria and keeps the flowers hydrated. When you change the water, you can also give the stems a fresh trim to help them continue to absorb water effectively. Check the bouquet daily and remove any individual blooms that have started to fade or wilt. 

This not only keeps the arrangement looking neat but also prevents the dying flowers from releasing ethylene gas near the healthy ones.

Conclusion On Types of Cosmos Flower

The cosmos flower is a truly versatile and beautiful bloom, offering a style for every taste and occasion. From the classic elegance of the white 'Purity' to the unique, chocolate-scented mystery of the Chocolate Cosmos, its presence brings a sense of calm and order to any space. 

Its delicate beauty and cheerful nature make it a wonderful way to add a touch of grace to your Singaporean home. Whether chosen for their symbolism of peace or simply for their lovely appearance, cosmos flowers are sure to bring joy.

If you have any questions or want to order a bouquet of flowers, please contact us. Visit Singapore Florist to find beautiful flowers and bouquets for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Cosmos Flower

What Does The Cosmos Flower Symbolize?

The cosmos flower primarily symbolises order, peace, and harmony, derived from the Greek word kosmos. It also represents modesty, innocence, and beauty. Different colours can carry slightly different meanings, with white often symbolising purity and red representing love and passion.

How Long Do Cosmos Flowers Last In A Vase?

When properly cared for, cut cosmos flowers can last for about five to seven days in a vase. To maximise their lifespan, it is important to change the water every two days, trim the stems regularly, and keep them away from direct sunlight and heat.

Are Cosmos Flowers Good For Bouquets?

Yes, cosmos flowers are excellent for bouquets. Their long, slender stems add height and a sense of movement, while their delicate, daisy-like blooms bring an airy, whimsical quality to arrangements. They work well on their own or mixed with other flowers.

What Is The Difference Between A Cosmos And A Daisy?

While they look similar, the main difference lies in their foliage and petal texture. Cosmos flowers have very fine, feathery, fern-like leaves, whereas daisies have broader, more traditional leaves. The petals of a cosmos are also typically more delicate and have a silkier, more satiny texture than those of a common daisy.

Do Cosmos Flowers Have A Scent?

Most varieties of cosmos flowers do not have a noticeable scent. The one famous exception is the Chocolate Cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus), which has a unique and pleasant fragrance that smells faintly of vanilla and dark chocolate, especially on warm days.

What Colors Do Cosmos Flowers Come In?

Cosmos flowers are available in a wide range of beautiful colours. The most common species, Cosmos bipinnatus, comes in shades of pink, white, magenta, crimson, and lavender. The Cosmos sulphureus species offers warmer tones like yellow, orange, and red. There is also the unique Chocolate Cosmos, which has a deep, velvety burgundy colour.