

Cockscombs
Botanical name: Celosia
Cockscombs
Botanical name: Celosia


Description

The cockscombs, also sometimes called 'woolflowers,' (Celosia) are a small group of flowering plants in the Amaranth family. These plants are commonly used ornamentally. Several species within the genus boast colorful, spike-shaped flowers and are often grown in gardens and parks.

Species of Cockscombs


Cockscomb 'Deep Purple'
Cockscomb 'Deep Purple' is a cockscomb variant named after its brilliant violet flowers, which are quite distinct from the paler and more variegated flowers of its parent plant. These spectacular brush-like upright flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall, thriving under bright sunlight in well-drained soil.

Plumed cockscomb 'Flamingo Feather'
Plumed cockscomb 'Flamingo Feather' sports light pink blooms, a striking contrast when compared to its parent plant, Celosia argentea, which produces bright red flowers. This cultivar is also much taller than its parent, sometimes growing to two meters tall. When you look at this plant's blooms, the name "Flamingo Feather" makes perfect sense.

Plumed cockscomb
The plumed cockscomb is a bright plant with recognizable red, pink, or purple flowers. It grows best in warm, tropical environments. Occasionally, plumed cockscomb is used as an ingredient in soap. In China and India, however, the plant is considered a pesky weed that reduces biodiversity.

Plumed cockscomb 'Asian Garden'
The first-ever winner of the All America Selections Award, plumed cockscomb 'Asian Garden' is known for its color-changing spikes of purple-to-pink flowers. A hybrid of cockscomb varieties, this cultivar was named by its Japanese breeder Murakami Seed to promote its beauty in Asian gardens. Plumed cockscomb 'Asian Garden' is very popular for its distinct colors, stunningly tall height, and appeal to birds and butterflies.

Cock's comb
Cock's comb (Celosia cristata) is a crested flowering plant native to India. The plant is named for its blossom, which resembles the head of a rooster. Cock's comb is susceptible to fungal diseases.

Many-flower cockscomb
The many-flower cockscomb, also sometimes called 'woolflowers,' (Celosia floribunda) are a small group of flowering plants in the Amaranth family. These plants are commonly used ornamentally. Several species within the genus boast colorful, spike-shaped flowers and are often grown in gardens and parks.

West indian cock's comb
Also known as west indian cock's comb, this plant is a popular landscaping choice due to its bright red clusters of flowers that bloom in summer and fall. Native to the Caribbean, it has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes by indigenous cultures. Attracting butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden, it is a great addition to any tropical-themed landscape design.

Woolflowers
Woolflowers is native to the Americas and Africa, where they are pollinated by bees, wasps, and sometimes hummingbirds. It has a long flowering season, and the flowers dry very well, making them excellent for water-free arrangements. Its species name, "spicata," means "spiked" in Latin.




Scientific Classification

Phylum
Vascular plants Class
Dicotyledons Order
Pinks, cacti, and allies Family
Amaranth Genus
Cockscombs