Celosia for Container and Cutting Gardens

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Genus name comes from the Greek word keleos meaning burning for the colorful flowers.

The specific epithet argentea means "silvery", in reference to the shiny, white bracts and tepals of the species. The group name Plumosa means "feathery" in reference to the shape of the inflorescence.

Celosia argentea

There are three common groups of Celosia argentea; spicata,  cristata, also known as cockscomb, and plumosa. Spica produces cylindrical flower spikes that resemble wheat – hence the common name wheat celosia or flaminco feather celosia. Cristata celosia produces a crested bloom and plumosa celosia blooms are fluffy and plume-like.

Celosia argentea var. spicata

Spikey grasses and flowers emote a carefree feeling of movement.

Celosia is an annual that is easily grown from seed, which makes it a great seed saving and pass along plant.

You can sow celosia seeds directly in the garden in late spring or early summer after the soil has warmed up and the last frost date has passed. If need be, you can start the seeds indoors 4 to 5 weeks ahead of time. However, celosia resents being transplanted so extra care is required when moving the young seedlings to their permanent home outdoors.

Celosia grows best in full sun and soil that is humus rich. While these plants can be somewhat drought tolerant, they prefer consistent moisture and suffer if allowed to wilt.

For better flowering, pinch back the first few blooms that appear. This will promote more branching of the stems, which means more flowers.

Celosia is a great flower for drying. Simply bundle 5 to 10 stems with a rubber band and hang upside down in a cool, dry room with good ventilation. Be sure to place a piece of newspaper under the bundles to collect the falling seeds.

The celosia is a plant that lends itself to change. 

The colors and form can change from year to year.

 

 

White Flaminco Celosia

Celosia argentea var. cristata (sic. var. spica) 'Flamingo Feathers'

This new perennial, Purple Celosia 'Intenz.' is provided by Ball Horticultural to the nursery and ornamental garden trade and is well worth an ardent perusal. It is found under various names including Celosia spicata or Celosia argentea var. spicata 'Flaminco feather' (wheat feather).  I have seen it in dramatic shades including magenta and purple and brilliant whites.

Cockscomb celosia, Celosia argentea var. plumosa 

Celosia argentea var. cristata

Red celosia with a coleus top.

This celosia has a crested faciation which gives it a 

melted or curled appearance.

Family | Amaranthaceae | Amaranth Family

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