CELOSIA

FRESH LOOK MIX CELOSIA

Celosia is a small genus of edible and ornamental plants in the amaranth family. The word celosia is from an Ancient Greek word “Keleos” meaning burning, referring to the flame-like flower plumes. They are also commonly known as woolflowers. When the plant blooms are affected by fasciation, they are known as cockscombs. Fasciation, or cresting, is a condition of abnormal

growth in vascular plants. This is the condition that creates the “Brain Celosia” or “Brain Coral Celosia”.

BRAIN CELOSIA

AS FOOD:Celosia argentea (Lagos spinach, quail grass, soko) is a broadleaf annual leafy vegetable. It grows across most of Mexico and is known as Velvet Flower. It is also grows in northern South America, tropical Africa, and Asia where it is grown as a native or naturalized wildflower. It is cultivated in these areas for its nutritious leafy greens. As a grain, Celosia is a pseudo-cereal, not a true cereal. The leaves are used for stews as they have a soft texture and a spinach-like taste.

Celosia’s origin is disputed, but most botanists believe the plant originated from Africa. It is traditional fare in Central and West Africa, and is the most used leafy green vegetable in Nigeria. It is

abundant in the East African Highlands where it is known by its Swahili name, mfungu.

CELOSIA INTENZ CLASSIC PURPLE

IN THE LANDSCAPE:

Celosia is a strong landscape performer in the Southeastern U.S. It is used during the spring and fall. It prefers full sun and well drained soil. It does not do well in full shade or wet areas, and it will not survive through the summer heat. It is a tender annual and will damage even in a light frost. All landscape varieties of celosia MUST be deadheaded to continue to push blooms through the 3 month season. Bloom-Masters recommends deadheading Celosias every 4 weeks after planting. For more information on Celosias and other annuals, please contact our office staff.

NEW LOOK RED CELOSIA