Scientific Name: Celosia argentea cristata
Planting: Celosia typically has a maturity period of 90-100 days.
Plant Spacing: For optimal growth and development, celosia plants should be spaced approximately 30cm (12 inches) apart. Proper spacing allows each plant to receive adequate sunlight, nutrients, and airflow, promoting healthy growth and preventing overcrowding.
Sun Preference: Celosia thrives in full sun conditions. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to flourish. Planting celosia in a location with ample sunlight exposure will result in robust growth and vibrant blooms.
Plant Type: Celosia is classified as an annual plant.
Pinching: To encourage bushier growth and more abundant flowering in celosia plants, pinching is recommended when the plants reach a height of 15-20cm (6-8 inches). Pinching involves removing the terminal bud or growing tip of the plant to stimulate lateral branching and create a fuller appearance. DO NOT PINCH BOMBAY CELOSIA
Appearance: Celosia plants are known for their vivid colours and showy, plume-like or crested flowers. The blooms of celosia are highly decorative, adding a touch of vibrancy to indoor spaces or summer gardens. These plants produce flowers from midsummer to early autumn, showcasing hues such as orange, pink, red, and green.
Harvesting: Celosia flowers should be harvested when they are at their peak bloom and the heads are the desired size, but before they go to seed. Strip the leaves off. Do not place in cooler.
Vase life: Celosia is one of the longest lasting cut flowers, with a vase life of up to two weeks when properly maintained. This flower comes in various forms, including plume, cockscomb, and wheat, and is available in a rainbow of colours. To increase its longevity, change the water in the vase frequently and keep it away from direct sunlight. 10-14days
Special Feautures : Celosia is widely used in ornamental horticulture for its striking flowers that make excellent cut flowers and can also be dried for use in arrangements. While most commonly grown for its flowers, Celosia is also edible. Leaves, tender stems, and young flower spikes can be eaten boiled or cooked in sauce or stew with other ingredients. The leaves contain high levels of beta-carotene and folic acid. Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are attracted to the brightly coloured flowers of Celosia.
Drying options : hanging upside down in a dark and warm area for 2-3 weeks.
Design features: Wonderful in wearables as well as installations as they are long lasting. I use them as filler and line flowers
