Cosmos atrosanguineus

Common name(s): chocolate cosmos

Description: perennial; velvety, deep burgundy flowers with a rich chocolate fragrance that is most noticeable in warm, sunny weather. Blooms all throughout the summer and into autumn. Roots are tuberous (much like dahlias) and depend upon freely draining soil to prevent rot during cold, wet weather.

Height: to 30 in. Spread: to 18 in.

Position: full sun and well-draining soil

Uses: ornamental, to attract pollinators

Winter Hardiness: to 10 F and below with sufficient drainage. One strategy for ensuring its survival is to dig up (lift) the tubers in late autumn once the plant is fully dormant and store them inside until the last hard frost has passed.