Celosia

Celosia argentea, also called cockscomb or plumed celosia, is a tropical herbaceous annual in the amaranth family that comes from Africa. Its small flowers grow in narrow, plume-like clusters in orange, red, purple and cream, and they bloom from late spring until the first frost. Some profiles describe it as an upright perennial that is usually grown as an annual. The flowers draw bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

Start seeds indoors about 4 weeks before the last frost, in individual cells or pots rather than flats. Cover the seed very lightly, and keep it from drying out, since it can take 10 to 14 days under mist to sprout. Seed usually sprouts in 8 to 14 days when kept at 70 to 80 °F (21 to 27 °C). Grow the seedlings at 63 to 68 °F (17 to 20 °C).

You can also sow directly outdoors after the last frost, but only where the growing season is long. Sow about ⅛ inch (3 mm) deep.

Move seedlings outside when night temperatures stay above 65 to 70 °F (18 to 21 °C) and the plants have 2 to 4 leaves, about 4 weeks after sowing. Plant out after the last frost into moist but well-drained soil. Give plume types at least 24 inches (61 cm) between plants.

Plant in full sun, which means at least 6 hours of direct sun a day. Loam, sand and soil rich in organic matter all work, as long as the soil drains well.

Water regularly, aiming for about one inch of water each week from rain or irrigation after transplanting. Regular watering helps keep the flowers and foliage looking good. Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks.

Pinch young plants 2 weeks after transplanting to encourage more branches and flowers. Seedlings left too long in small pots become stunted and may never reach full size.

Plants can be grown in containers as well as in the ground. Deadhead spent flowers if you don’t want the plant to reseed.

Seedlings are vulnerable to damping-off. Green peach aphids and melon aphids can cluster on the growing tips and cause stunting or deformed flower heads. Overhead watering promotes leaf spot, so water early in the day so the foliage can dry.

Snails and slugs can be a problem, and the roots can rot in wet soil. Crowding, rain and high humidity can make the flowers rot. The plant can become weedy. Deer will browse it.

Cut plume-type flowers when about half of the flowers are open. Leave two or three leaves on each stem to help draw water up and keep the flowers fresh. The flower heads are good for fresh and dried arrangements. To keep the colors, dry the stems rapidly.

The plant is listed as non-toxic for cats and dogs. Its leaves and young shoots are cooked and used in soups and stews.