Celosia argentea typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.
cockscomb
Celosia argentea (syn. C. cristata )
Also Known As - plumed celosiaCockscomb (Celosia argentea (syn. C. cristata)) is a plant species in the Amaranthaceae family. It has green, feathery foliage and grows to about 2-3 feet in height and 3-4 feet in width. The flowers are a bright, striking red and form fan- or crested-shaped "cockscomb", clustered tightly together along the stem. The plant is drought tolerant, requires only occasional watering and prefers full sun. It is cold-hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and resists both deer and rabbits. It can be used in annual beds and borders, but also in patio containers or as an indoor houseplant.
Cycle:
Annual
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
9
Flowers:
Showy, Yellow, Orange, Pink, Red, Dark-red Flowers In Spring
Sun:
Full sun, Part sun/part shade
Fruits:
Fruits In Autumn Ready In
Edible:
Yes
Leaf:
Yes
Growth Rate:
High
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
watering
Cockscomb (Celosia argentea (syn. C. cristata )) should be watered deeply once a week, making sure to moisten the soil evenly and avoiding wetting the leaves. If possible, check the soil for dryness prior to watering as the frequency of watering may vary due to weather conditions. Avoid over-watering as this can make the soil soggy and reduce oxygen levels in the soil. While the soil should be evenly moist, it should not be soggy. In periods of heavy rainfall, water less frequently as the plant may receive enough water from the previous rainfall. During the winter period, water only when the soil is dry.
sunlight
Cockscomb (Celosia argentea (syn. C. cristata )) require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day in order to grow and thrive. These plants prefer full sun throughout the day, but may also do well in partial shade for a few hours in midday, when the sunlight is its strongest. The optimal range of sunlight for these plants is between 6 to 8 hours a day. If planted in full sun, Cockscomb may require more frequent watering than those grown in partial shade. It is best to water these plants in the morning when the sun has just come up, allowing any moisture left from watering to dry before nightfall. If the plant is kept in partial shade, it should only be watered when the soil appears dry.
pruning
Cockscomb (Celosia argentea (syn. C. cristata )) should be pruned back lightly in late winter or very early spring. Aim to cut your plants back to about 1 third of their height, removing any dead or diseased stems. Pruning helps to encourage new growth and can help improve air circulation and overall plant health. During the blooming season, you can also deadhead any spent flowers as these can encourages the growth of more flowers. Pruning your cockscomb plant regularly will ensure you enjoy a full season of blooms.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Harvest Fruit
The harvesting season for Celosia argentea (syn. C. cristata) typically begins in July and continues through October.
Starts Flowering
Celosia argentea typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.
Harvest Fruit
The harvesting season for Celosia argentea (syn. C. cristata) typically begins in July and continues through October.
Hardiness Map
FAQ
Is Cockscomb a hardy or delicate plant?
Cockscomb is a hardy plant that can typically withstand many weather conditions. It is native to Central America and the Caribbean and can survive in zones 9-11. It grows best in full sun, in well-draining soils and does not require frequent pruning or fertilization. It can tolerate mild drought, but not extended drought. In cold climates, it should be brought indoors or in heated greenhouses during the winter months.
Are Cockscomb flowers fragrant?
No, cockscomb flowers are not generally known as fragrant flowers. They are commonly used as a colorful ornamental flower mostly for their interesting shape and vivid colors. Cockscomb flowers are most often yellow, pink, purple, orange, and coral. The flowers are unique in that the shape of their petals resemble the head of a rooster, hence the name cockscomb.
Should Cockscomb plants be grown indoors or outdoors?
Cockscomb plants should be grown outdoors in a sunny spot with moist, well-draining soil. While they can tolerate some partial shade, they do best in at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Cockscomb plants can suffer from overwatering and may not thrive indoors due to lack of adequate light and air circulation, so growing them outdoors is the best option.
Could Cockscomb be used as a cut flower?
Yes, cockscomb can be used as a cut flower. Its beautiful and vibrant colors range from yellow to orange and red, and it works great in flower arrangements for any occasion. The bloom lasts for several days and can be easily dried for longer lasting decorations. Cockscomb is extremely easy to handle and arrange, and its unique crested shape stands out from the rest of the blooms it is paired with.
Is Cockscomb a perennial plant?
Yes, Cockscomb is a perennial plant, meaning it lives and grows year after year. It is a member of the amaranth family, and its flowers are pink and purple, with leaves typically in a triangular shape. The plant is often planted in beds and in containers to give it a fuller and richer look. When well cared for, Cockscomb will flower plentifully, usually in a warm summertime climate. As it is a perennial, it will continue to come up year after year as long as it's in optimal growing conditions.
Could Cockscomb be grown in a greenhouse?
Yes, Cockscomb can be grown in a greenhouse, provided the greenhouse conditions are suitable for the type of cockscomb being grown. The temperature needs to stay between 58°F-86°F, with a consistent supply of moisture. The greenhouse should provide partial shade, and it should be well ventilated. Additionally, cockscomb should be grown in a soil that is slightly acidic and drains well. If all of these conditions are met, cockscomb should thrive in a greenhouse environment.
Is Cockscomb a fast-growing plant?
Yes, cockscomb is a fast-growing plant. This plant typically grows quickly and can reach full maturity in just a few months. In ideal growing conditions, leaves and blooms may appear within weeks. During the bloom season, flowers last approximately four weeks and the clumps of foliage and flowers can reach 1 to 3 feet in height. Cockscomb is a perennial and may need cold protection to help it regrow each year.
Do Cockscomb plants spread quickly?
Yes, cockscomb plants can spread quickly due to their prolific seed production. The seeds blow around in the wind and land in favorable areas of soil and climate, resulting in new plants growing. Cockscomb plants also spread easily by multiplying vegetatively, sending out stems which root and become new plants. In warm, moist locations cockscomb can quickly become a problem plant due to its vigor and invasive growth.
