Cock's comb - Celosia cristata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Cock's comb

Also known as: Woolflower, Twisted red

Cock's comb (Celosia cristata) is a crested flowering plant native to India. The plant is named for its blossom, which resembles the head of a rooster. Cock's comb is susceptible to fungal diseases.

Scientific classification

Species

Cock's comb (Celosia cristata)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

27 cm to 49 cm

Plant Height

23 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green, Lavender, Purple, Burgundy, Red

Leaf Color

15 cm

Flower Size

Black

Fruit Color

Yellow, Pink, Orange, Red, Purple, Lavender

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Cock's comb

Distribution of Cock's comb

Distribution Map

Cock's comb is originally native to tropical regions of Africa and is now widely distributed across various continents including Asia, the Americas, and parts of Europe. It has been introduced and naturalized in regions with similar climates and is commonly cultivated in many areas around the world.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Open moist places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify air and absorb toxic gases.

Garden Use

The cock's comb is commonly grown to bring a pop of color to flowerbeds and borders of cutting gardens, and it can also be grown in containers and hanging baskets. It is prized for its long-lasting blooms and compact nature. Gardeners may plant the cock's comb alongside other plants such as the dahlia, zinnia, and marigold.

Symbolism

True and everlasting love

Interesting Facts

The cock's comb expresses sincere and eternal love. It means that true love will last long and never fade. In many European countries, the first flower presented by lovers is usually the red cock's comb flower, which represents a beautiful vision and wishes for the future. Most of the common cock's comb flowers are red, but their colors are actually very rich in variety, in various shades of red and orange. These rich and varied colors symbolize full vitality that give people a positive, enthusiastic feeling.

Name Story

Cockscomb||Crested cockscomb: The interesting appearance of Celosia cristata gave this tropical flower its common name cock's comb. Cock's comb is a crested variety of Celosia argentea, and it's recognizable by its inflorescence that resembles the red combs on the rooster's head.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Cock's comb

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Cock's comb originates from tropical regions and thrives in high humidity, requiring consistent moisture and watering twice a week to maintain its vibrant plumes. It benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture and enhance flowering during the growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, cock's comb requires high phosphorus fertilizers to enhance root development and blooms. Apply a balanced, water-soluble blend every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, adjusting to monthly in winter. Distribute evenly at the base, avoiding foliage contact to prevent burns.

Pruning: Cock's comb has vibrant, ruffled blooms and should be pruned in early to late spring. Trim faded flowers to promote new blooms and shape. Regular deadheading and removal of dead parts enhance health and vigor for an attractive appearance during the growing season.

Propagation: Cock's comb is ideally propagated by sowing seeds in early spring. Successful propagation is marked by germination and healthy seedling growth. Maintaining consistent moisture and warmth during germination is crucial for optimal results.

Repotting: Cock's comb requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive, preventing excess moisture that can lead to root rot. Proper drainage ensures optimal growth and health for the plant.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Cock's comb

Distribution of Cock's comb

Culture

Care Guide for Cock's comb

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases