Growing Celosia (Cockscomb)

Article: Growing Celosia (Cockscomb)

EllenB
Gold Post Medal for All Time! 858 Posts

May 12, 2006

Botanical Name:

Celosia argentea

Life Cycle:

annual

Planting Time:

spring

Height:

dwarf 6" to 12"; full-sized from 2' to 3'

Exposure:

full sun

Soil:

rich in organic nutrients; moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

n/a

Bloom Time:

summer through fall

Flower:

yellow, red and orange plumes

Foliage:

green

Propagation:

seeds

Suggested Use:

borders, cut flowers, large plantings and dried flowers

Growing Hints:

Celosia thrives in heat and humidity. Sow seeds directly outdoors in warmer zones. In cooler zones start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before last frost. Transplant seedlings 6 to 8 inches apart (tall varieties 12 to 15 inches apart) once you're sure the weather is going to stay warm. Advertisement To dry celosia, harvest them when they are fully open, removed leaves and hang them upside down to dry.

Interesting Facts:

Cockscomb gets its name from its "rooster-like" plumes. The tall varieties make extremely striking dried arrangements.

Question: Growing a Celosia Intenz Plant Indoors?

I just bought 8 inch Celosia Intenz plant. I live on the east coast and my zone is too cold for it to survive the winter. Can I keep it indoors like a houseplant?

By LaVerne