SafePlants

Celosia cristata: The Fascinating Cockscomb

The Cockscomb, scientifically known as Celosia cristata, is an intriguing plant known for its unique and vibrant blooms. It's also referred to as Wool Flowers or Brain Celosia due to the appearance of its flowers. The crested variety of Celosia is named for the resemblance to a rooster's comb.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• The plant has a textured flower, sometimes described as having convoluted ridges.
• Some varieties have very bright colors that may be attractive to children and pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Celosia cristata
• Common Names: Cockscomb, Wool Flowers, Brain Celosia
• Family: Amaranthaceae
• Synonym: Amaranthus hypochondriacus (Red Cocks Comb, Pile Wort, Lady Bleeding)

Distribution and Habitat

• Thomas Jefferson recorded sowing Cockscomb at Shadwell in 1767.
• Introduced to Europe from Asia in the late 16th century.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• The Cockscomb flower is an annual.
• Celosia has three kinds of blooms: candle, crested, and plume. The crested bloom looks like a rooster’s comb.
• Known for its bright colors and "bizarre" or "weird" shaped bloom.
• Cockscomb is easy to grow from seed in most soil types, even heavy clay.

Quirky Facts

• The name "Cockscomb" derives from its visual similarity to the fleshy red crest on the head of gallinaceous birds like roosters.
• The unusual shape of the bloom has been described as "bizarre" or "weird."
• Historically, "cockscomb" also referred to a cap worn by court jesters.