[4][5][6][7] Cosmos bipinnatus is an annual that is often considered half-hardy, although plants may reappear via self-sowing for several years.

The branched stem is usually densely to occasionally occupied by fine, split up, rough trichomes, but some specimens are completely hairless.

The partial leaves are linear-filiform to narrow linear with a width of 0.5 to 1 (rarely to 1.7) mm; the tips are pointed, hardened, but not particularly sharp.

[9] The very conspicuous cup-shaped inflorescences have a diameter of usually 5–7 cm (2.0–2.8 in) and contain tongue and tubular flowers, which are surrounded by bracts.

They are translucent with many black stripes and a clear edge up to 1 mm wide, sometimes with yellowish or pink pigments, the tip is ciliate.

The mostly eight ray florets are pink to violet or white colored, at the base may show noticeable stains caused by anthocyanin.

Growth characteristics of this plant include: Excessive rain can cause cultivation problems, due to the delicate nature of the stems.

Cosmos bipinnatus can tolerate heat as long as adequate moisture is provided, however, it does not handle droughts, strong winds or cold temperatures well.