Ulam Raja

cosmos caudatus

Also known as: ["Wild Cosmos","King's Leaf"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Cosmos Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A tropical plant with large, lobed leaves and attractive daisy-like flowers, often used in Southeast Asian cuisine.

Benefits & Perks

["edible leaves","fragrant flowers","fast growing","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Cosmos
Botanical Name: Cosmos caudatus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny location, or large container in a bright spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Edible Gardeners Fragrance Lovers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate airflow to prevent heat stress.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.

Watering

every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay; maintain consistent moisture.

Temperature

Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid over-fertilizing; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; anytime for seeds.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Deadheading and selective trimming of overgrown stems.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.

Tools

Sharp pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Check for dead or damaged stems; prune to shape; remove spent flowers; sanitize tools.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up from current pot; ensure drainage holes.

Method

Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out tangled roots; place in a pot 1–2 inches larger.

Suggestions

Repot if roots are crowded or growth slows; typically every 1–2 years.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or aged manure; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; risk of frost damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; use frost cloth or mulch for protection; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering; may drop lower leaves.

Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Cosmos caudatus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or aphids. It can also be a sign of viral infections or root rot.

Wilting in Cosmos caudatus is often caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering leading to root rot. It can also result from pest infestations or diseases affecting the vascular system.

Leaf spots on Cosmos caudatus are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, such as Cercospora or Xanthomonas, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthesis if severe.

Rotting in Cosmos caudatus, particularly root or stem rot, is commonly caused by fungal pathogens like Fusarium or Pythium, often exacerbated by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to plant death if untreated.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Cosmos caudatus is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not toxic

No specific safety precautions are needed for cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Cosmos caudatus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not toxic

No specific safety precautions are needed for dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Cosmos caudatus is not considered toxic to humans. It is often used in traditional medicine and as a leafy green vegetable in some regions.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not toxic

No specific safety precautions are needed for human consumption or handling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Cosmos caudatus edible?

A: Yes, its leaves are commonly eaten in Southeast Asian cuisine.

Q: How often should I water Cosmos caudatus?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Cosmos caudatus attract wildlife?

A: It can attract butterflies and bees due to its flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 5–7 days, allowing soi
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","edible gardeners","fragrance lovers"]
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