Cosmos Sea Shells Red Seed brings a distinctive twist to the classic Cosmos look. The Sea Shells type is known for rolled, tubular petals that create a fluted flower form, giving sunny South African beds and cutting rows an unusual textural finish.

View our detailed grow guide: Cosmos Grow Guide for South African Conditions.

Plant Information

• Plant Type: Annual
• Scientific Name: Cosmos bipinnatus

Growing Information

• General Sowing Time: Spring to early summer once frost risk has passed; in warm frost-free regions, sow while soil conditions are warm and settled.
• Position: Full sun; light partial shade is tolerated but flowering is usually strongest in sun.
• Sow Depth: Sow shallowly and cover lightly with loose soil. Avoid burying Cosmos seed too deeply.
• Spacing: About 20-30 cm apart for garden displays; allow extra airflow for taller cut-flower rows.
• Germination: 7-21 days in warm soil.
• Height: Sea Shells types are typically around 90 cm.
• Available Pack Sizes: 30 g raw seed

Why Grow Cosmos Sea Shells Red?

• Unique sea-shell petal form adds interest beyond standard Cosmos blooms.
• Red-toned flowers provide strong seasonal colour in sunny beds and borders.
• Excellent for cut flowers, pollinator gardens and cottage-style plantings.
• Easy, quick and rewarding from seed in warm conditions.
• Regular cutting helps keep plants flowering.

Garden Uses

Plant Cosmos Sea Shells Red where its unusual fluted petals can be seen up close: along paths, in cutting rows, in mixed annual borders or in pollinator-friendly displays. It works well with zinnias, sunflowers and other warm-season flowers that enjoy full sun.

Growing Notes

• Direct sow into prepared, well-drained soil and keep evenly moist until seedlings are established.
• Avoid overly rich feeding; Cosmos can become leafy and soft if pushed too hard.
• Deadhead or pick flowers regularly to encourage a longer flowering display.
• Protect young plants from frost and stake taller plants in exposed, windy positions.

Brought to you by Ubuntuberg Seeds, where our mission is to cultivate humanity & harvest unity. Ubuntuberg Seeds: the highest quality seed stock in all of Southern Africa, sourced from sustainable farms, guaranteeing you the best quality seed stock.