These 28-inch celosias are the originals that provide a dramatic background planting in any setting and are excellent long-lasting cut flowers. In our demonstration gardens, the eye was immediately drawn to these plants due to the stately grace of the stems and vivid colors–scarlet rose, carmine, gold, cream, and bronze.

50 seeds

PLANTING

Celosia argentea plumosa

Annual

Germination: 15-21 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-75F

Seed Planting Depth: Sow on surface and press into soil, seeds need light to germinate

Starting Indoors: Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75F soil temperature for germination. Transplant 6-12 apart after the last frost.

Sowing Outdoors: Direct sowing outdoors after the last frost, only in areas with a long growing season. Sow a few seeds every 4-6, thin to 10-12 apart

Growth Habit: Upright, branching

Height and Width: 30 x 12

Spacing: 6-12 apart

Light Needs: Full sun

Soil Needs: Fertile, well-drained

Approximate days to flower from seed: 90-100 days

Uses: Cut flowers- fresh or dried, flower beds, cottage gardens, containers and planters, attracts pollinators

Care: Amend soil with compost before transplanting. Apply a liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks or use a time-release fertilizer at planting time for strong long-lasting growth. Drying flowers- Remove foliage and hang fresh-cut flowers upside down in a dark room with good airflow.