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Plant Selector Guide
Celosia cristata (Cockscomb)

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Plant Type: Annual
Uses: Ornamental, Cutting Bed, Edging, Dried Arrangements
Propagation: Seeds
Habit: Upright
Light: Full Sun, Part Shade
Flower Color: Various
Blooms: Summer, Autumn
Width: 1.5 ft.
Height: .5 - 2 ft.
Fertility: Moderately Rich
Soil: Neutral, Moist, Well-drained, Medium
Zone: 1 - 11

Half-hardy Annual. A good cut flower with erect, showy blossoms resembling a rooster's comb in a variety of colors- yellow, orange, red, pink or purple. Needs full sun, rich, well-drained, sandy soil. All varieties come in brilliant shades of yellow, orange, red and purple. The flower heads are extremely long lasting; one flower head may decorate a plant for eight weeks or more before fading. Can be grown as a houseplant, in warm and sunny conditions, with evenly moist, humusy soil, though C. cristata will tolerate dry conditions also. Cool weather will stunt the growth of C. cristata. In warm climates, avoid cultivars with pale-colored leaves as they will be scorched by the hot summer sun. 'Jewel Box' and 'Chanticleer' are two recommended cultivars along with 'Floradale Salmon', which is pictured. To dry, cut the flowers when they are at their peak and hang them upside down in an airy, shady place.