Planting Celosia - Learn How to Care for Cockscomb Flowers
Celosia is a fascinating plant. It is not the easiest to grow, though. It requires certain conditions, care and fertilizing. Check the current most popular celosia varieties growing in gardens and learn the characteristics of this unique flower.
Celosia – what kind of plant is it?
Celosia (Celosia) is typically grown in gardens, but it can also be a houseplant. It’s commonly known as woolflower or cockscomb – because of its characteristic appearance.
The flower doesn’t grow very tall, and most importantly, it’s an annual. If you want to have such a decoration in your garden – you have to purchase a new plant each year, e.g., in different colors.
What is the natural habitat of celosia plant?
Celosia flower is popular everywhere in the world. Apart from cultivated varieties, it also grows naturally. The wild plant can be encountered in Europe, Asia, Africa and both Americas. Celosia is considered a nearly extinct plant in some regions. For this reason, it’s under special protection.
What does celosia look like?
Celosia looks quite unusual and is generally a unique plant, which makes it highly popular. The flowers have a shape of a spike or a comb – hence the mentioned name cockscomb. Celosia flowers differ depending on the variety, and there are several of them.
Celosia flowers have various colors. Pink is the most popular. But the plant has different colors as well:
- white,
- yellow,
- orange,
- red,
- purple.
As for the leaves, they have an intense green shade. Their shape is elongated, and they grow on stems right below the flowers. Some celosia varieties have leaves with a purple tinge.
Popular varieties of celosia
Celosia comes in different varieties. They are classified according to their flowers, in particular – their shape. Plumed cockscomb (Celosia argentea var. argentea) is the most popular type. It’s characteristic for its height. This plant has many sub-varieties and cultivars. Thanks to this, there are many types to choose from.
Celosia Prince of Wales feathers (Celosia argentea var. plumosa) has characteristic flowers of a conical shape. The plant doesn’t grow tall, its typical height is maximally 45-50 cm (17.7-19.6 in). There are several types within this group, for instance:
- Ice Cream
- Kimono Yellow
- Century
- Arrabona Red
Wheat celosia (Celosia argentea var. spicata) is one of the tallest varieties – it can grow up to 70 cm (2.3 ft) tall. It also has a bit different leaf shape – it’s very long. Popular cultivars within this group:
- Kosmo
- Celway
- China Town
Crested celosia (Celosia argentea var. cristata) is the most interesting variant. The flowers of this cultivar are quite different – more effuse. Its leaves tend to change their color. There are several types within this group, such as:
- Act
- Bombay
- Chief
- Red Velvet
- Gipsy Queen
Celosia – care needs
Celosia is a difficult plant. If you decide to grow it in your garden, make sure to plant it in a sunny and windless location (as wind might damage the stems). Note that celosia can be planted only if the weather conditions are optimal. What it means, you can plant celosia in the ground as late as between May and June.
As for the perfect soil for celosia, it should be moderately moist. But it cannot be overly wet – it might cause root rot. The soil should be fertile, rich in humus and of a neutral pH.
Don’t forget about feeding the plant. It should be done once a week. Use multi-ingredient products designed for flowering plants.
Celosia flower – what are its advantages?
Although celosia is a difficult and sensitive plant, it’s often used as decoration for special occasions, e.g., weddings. What’s the reason behind this trend? The plant lasts long after cutting. With proper care, it can last even 3 weeks. What’s more, it’s frequently used in dried version as well. The rich color palette is also a big plus. Thanks to it, the flowers are perfect for wedding bouquets.
📍 How to collect celosia seeds?
Celosia seeds can be harvested, and it's not difficult. Just pick them from the flowers. If you're unsuccessful, you can always purchase some in a garden store.
📍 How to water cockscombs?
Soil for celosia should be always damp, but not overwatered. Usually, watering once per week is enough. But make sure to control the soil in the pot regularly. Usually there's no need to water the plants growing in the garden.
📍 How long do celosia plants last?
Celosia in pots kept indoors usually blooms much longer – because of the better conditions. It can happen from the end of April until the beginning of October. As for celosia planted in the garden, it blooms from June to September.
📍 What is the best soil for celosia plant?
The best soil for celosia is fertile, rich in humus and permeable. The pH should be neutral. The soil also has to be always moderately moist.
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