Origin: Native to tropical America and Africa
Family: Amaranthaceae
Scientific Name: Celosia
History: Celosias have been in North America for a long amount of time! Celosias have been growing in North America since the 1700s, though their roots take them back to tropical America and Africa. Chinese herbalists used celosia to stop bleeding, and treat diseases of the blood and infections of the urinary tract, but there are no references to its use in western herbals. In the Victorian language of flowers, celosias signified humor, warmth and silliness.
Uses: Celosia argentea, also known as Lagos Spinach, is used for its highly nutritious green foliage and young shoots. Often, it’s steamed or used in soups and strews in Indonesian, Indian and African dishes.
Colors: Common colors range from purple, red, orange, yellow, white, pink and maroon, with foliage colors ranging from blue/green to purple/burgundy to chartreuse/gold.
Basic Variety Types: Celosia is comprised of 45 different species in the Amaranth family, but Celosia argentea cultivars are grouped into three different categories: Plumosa types, Cristata types and Spicata types.
Popular Varieties:
- Plumosa Types:
- Kimono
- Flamma
- First Flame
- Kelos Fire
- Cristata Types:
- Brainiac
- Dracula
- Armor Mix
- Sol Collection
- Spicata Types:
- Kelos Atomic
- Kelos Candela Pink
- Intetnz Series
- Asian Garden
Name Origin: The name celosia is derived from the Greek word kelos, and translates to “burning,” which aptly describes the different colors and shape of the flower!
Did You Know?: In Nigeria, celosia is a staple food crop called Sokoyokota, which means “make husbands fat and happy”.
Breeders: Jung Seed, Harris Seed, Territorial Seed Company, Proven Winners, Park Seed, Seeds ‘N Such, Botanical Interests, True Leaf Market, West Coast Seeds, Rohrer Seeds, Meadow Farms, Pine Tree Garden Seeds, Select Seeds, Johnny’s Selected Seeds, Monrovia, Eden Brothers, Osborne Quality Seeds, Hoss, Burpee
Source: National Garden Bureau, Aggie Horticulture
