Plants I Love - The Cosmos Flowers

Exploring the Cosmos Flowers

Every year, as the seasons change in South Africa, the countryside is transformed into a breathtaking tapestry of color.

In early autumn and again in late summer, the roadsides burst into life with the delicate blooms of Cosmos Flowers.

These enchanting blossoms, in hues of pink, white, cerise, and red, paint a picturesque scene that captivates both locals and visitors alike.

A Naturalist’s Adventure Among the Cosmos

Navigating the terrain to capture the perfect shot of these annual beauties is an adventure in itself. Imagine wading through the tall, vibrant Cosmos - taller than a person - along the roadside.

The experience is as thrilling as it is perilous, with unexpected encounters such as nearly tumbling into hidden Rabbit holes, brushing through webs of the vast Orb Web Spider, or startling a family of Francolins, which suddenly burst into flight, breaking the serene silence of the countryside.

The Ecological Tapestry of Cosmos

Cosmos, a genus within the family Asteraceae, consists of about 20 - 26 species of annual and perennial plants.

These flowers, originally native to Mexico and now widespread in South Africa, thrive in disturbed soils such as those found along road verges that are often cleared by road scrapers.

This easy adaptability has made Cosmos a common sight, especially in regions like Mpumalanga, Gauteng, North - West and the Free State.

The plant structure of Cosmos is as fascinating as its history. Growing anywhere from 0.3 to 2 m tall, Cosmos plants feature simple to bipinnate leaves arranged in opposite pairs.

The flowers themselves are a spectacle: a capitulum surrounded by broad ray florets and a center filled with disc florets.

This structure supports a myriad of colors, though yellow is notably absent in South African varieties.

Cultural and Legal Aspects

While these flowers have become a beloved subject for artists and a popular choice for gardeners seeking to add color to their landscapes, it is important to note that it is against the law to pick Cosmos Flowers from the roadside in South Africa.

However, for those eager to bring the beauty of Cosmos into their own gardens, seeds are readily available at most nurseries.

These flowers not only make for a stunning garden display but are also perfect for creating country - style cut - flower arrangements.

Cosmos in South African Culture

Intriguingly, Cosmos are considered an alien species in South Africa. Introduced accidentally with contaminated horse feed during the Anglo Boer War at the turn of the 20th century, they have since naturalized extensively.

This historical snippet adds a layer of depth to the Cosmos's presence, reflecting a blend of beauty and resilience.

Despite their status as invasive, they are often seen as a natural part of the South African landscape, growing freely in fallow fields and alongside roads.

A Haven for Biodiversity

The presence of Cosmos supports local biodiversity, attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and birds.

This interaction highlights the integral role that even non - native species can play in local ecosystems, contributing to the pollination of many other native plants.

Conclusion

The Cosmos flowers of South Africa are more than just a visual delight; they are a story of adaptation, survival, and beauty.

Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or a gardener, the Cosmos offers something for everyone, symbolizing the dynamic and ever - changing tapestry of life.

About The Author

Kyle Grobler is a passionate environmentalist and esteemed field guide from Potchefstroom. With an unparalleled love for nature, he boasts a vast collection of over 40,000 photos, illustrating his particular affinity for birds.

Known by many as the embodiment of a true bushman, Kyle has ventured through various South African game reserves and frequently explores the Vaal River's hidden treasures. As a new contributor to the Potch Gazette's environmental page, readers can anticipate immersive tales of Potchefstroom's natural wonders through Kyle's expert lens.

To see more from Kyle and his bush experiences you can also view his Youtube Channel here: Kyle Grobler Photography

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