The Cosmea is usually sold as an annual ornamental plant and is not hardy either. But there are some species that are perennial and form tuberous roots. These can be overwintered in a similar form to dahlias.
The cosmea must be dug up for overwintering
Perennial species include, for example, the chocolate-scented Cosmea atrosangiuneus. Because of its scent, the black-red flowering Cosmea is also called chocolate flower. Dig up the root bulbs and store them at around 5 °C in a dry and dark place. In May the Cosmeen are then planted back in the garden. Container plants hibernate at the same temperatures, are only occasionally watered and not fertilized.
Winter tips for perennial species of cosmea:
- Dig up root nodules
- store frost-free
- Plant out again after the ice saints
- winter frost-free
- Water potted plants sporadically
- do not fertilize
tips
When you buy your Cosmea, find out whether it is a perennial species, because only then is it worth spending the winter.