Cockscomb Fast Facts

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Overview

The cockscomb (Celosia cristata) gets its name from the flower's resemblance to the comb of a rooster. These colorful annuals bloom from late summer through late fall.

Colors

Cockscomb blooms come in colors of bright red, orange, yellow and pink. There are three different styles of flower: crested, plume and wheat.

Habit

Cockscomb are tropical flowers and thrive in full sun and hot weather.

Dried Flower Use

The flower heads of the cockscomb make good subjects for drying, and can be used as everlastings in arrangements or potpourri.

Edible Plant

Besides being ornamental, the leaves and the flowers of the cockscomb are edible. Cockscomb is often used as a vegetable in India, West Africa and South America.

Flower Meaning

In Victorian times, the celosia was thought to send a message of humor, warmth and silliness.

References

Cock's Comb
Celosia Fact Sheet

Keywords: cockscomb flowers, celosia flowers, annual flowers

About this Author

Gwen Bruno has been a full-time freelance writer since 2009, with her gardening-related articles appearing on DavesGarden. She is a former teacher and librarian, and she holds a bachelor's degree in education from Augustana College and master's degrees in education and library science from North Park University and the University of Wisconsin.

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