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| "Celosia argentea" | |
|---|---|
| |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Division: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Celosia |
| Species: | C. argentea |
| Binomial name | |
| Celosia argentea | |
Celosia argentea, commonly known as plumed cockscomb, is a plant of tropical origin, and is known for its very bright colors.
Description
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Celosia argentea is a tender annual that is often grown in gardens. It is propagated by seeds. The seeds are extremely small, up to 43,000 seeds per ounce.
The Century cultivars are usually taller (1-2 feet), and are bright red, yellow, orange, or pink. The Kimono cultivars are generally smaller (4 inches - 1 foot), and have more muted colors, though similar to the Century cultivars. Other colors, such as white, burgundy, orange-red, etc., can be found. Certain varieties will grow to 3-4 feet in height.
Cultivation
Since these plants are of tropical origin, they grow best in full sunlight. The flowerheads can last up to 8 weeks, and further growth can be promoted by removing dead flowers.
Celosia plumosa, also known as "Prince of Wales Feathers," is a synonym for Celosia argentea. "Flamingo Feathers" is a specific annual that can grow up to 2 feet in height. The colors are predominantly pink to light violet, and the leaves are a darker green, when compared to C. argentea.
Use
Food
A traditional food plant in Africa, this little-known vegetable has potential to improve nutrition, boost food security, foster rural development and support sustainable landcare.
The leaves and flowers are edible and are grown for such use in Africa and Southeast Asia.
Companion Planting
Also used in Africa to help control growth of the parasitic Striga plant.
Gallery
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Around the fields in Hyderabad, India.
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Around the fields in Hyderabad, India.
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Celosia argentea Kimono pink
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Celosia argentea Century red
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Celosia argentea var. spicata Flamingo Feathers
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Celosia argentea var. cristata
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Celosia argentea var. plumosa
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Celosia argentea var. spicata
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References
- "Prince of Wales Feathers - Celosia plumosa" (html).
- National Research Council (2006-10-27). "Celosia". Lost Crops of Africa: Volume II: Vegetables. Lost Crops of Africa. Vol. 2. National Academies Press. ISBN 978-0-309-10333-6. Retrieved 2008-07-15.
{{cite book}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter:|origdate=(help); External link in|chapterurl=|chapterurl=ignored (|chapter-url=suggested) (help) - Grubben, G.J.H. & Denton, O.A. (2004) Plant Resources of Tropical Africa 2. Vegetables. PROTA Foundation, Wageningen; Backhuys, Leiden; CTA, Wageningen.