Celosia is a relative of Amaranth, and native to the highlands of East Africa where it is known in Swahili as mfungu. Today’s cultivated Celosias have been selected for the brightness of their colours and compactness of growth. Celosia is sometimes listed by the common names Cockscomb or Woolflower. Continue reading below for our best tips on how to grow Celosia from seed.
Latin
Celosia plumosa
Family: Amaranthaceae
Difficulty
Easy
Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Timing
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost, in peat or coir pots – Celosia does not like its roots disturbed by transplanting. Transplant at least two weeks after last frost, once nighttime temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F). Or direct sow outdoors after last frost. Seeds will germinate in 6-14 days.
Starting
Just cover the small seeds. If starting indoors, try to maintain a soil temperature of 21-25°C (70-75°F). Be sure to use peat pots, coir pots, or Cowpots, and transplant the whole pot into the soil at transplant time. This will minimize transplant shock.
Growing
Plant in full sun or partial shade in ordinary, moist soil with a pH range of 6.0 to7.0. Celosia prefers warm temperatures.