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West Indian Cock's Comb (Celosia nitida)

Celosia nitida, also known as West Indian Cock's Comb, is a perennial forb/herb subshrub with a long history of use and a wide distribution. This plant belongs to the Amaranthaceae family and is known for its presence in various tropical and subtropical regions.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Celosia nitida Vahl
• Common Names: West Indian Cock's Comb
• Family: Amaranthaceae (pigweed, amaranthus family)
• Genus: Celosia L. (cock's comb)
• Taxonomic Status: Accepted
• Related ITIS Name: Celosia nitida Vahl (TSN 20780)
• Other Celosia Species:
  • Celosia palmeri S. Watson – Palmer's cock's comb
  • Celosia trigyna L. – Woolflower
  • Celosia argentea – Silver Cock's Comb / Crested Cock's Comb / Plume
  • Celosia argentea var. cristata – Crested Cock's Comb
  • Celosia cristata (cockscomb)
  • Celosia argenteiformis

Distribution and Habitat

• Native Range: Southeastern United States (peninsular Florida, Texas), the West Indies, Mexico, Central America, and South America.
• Also found in northern South America, tropical Africa, and Southeast Asia.
• Grows well in many climates, particularly in the tropics.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Habit: Forb/herb, subshrub
• Duration: Perennial
• Described as fast-growing and quickly becoming a large bush or small tree.
• Some varieties produce huge spikes of deep coral-red blooms throughout summer.

Traditional Uses

• Traditional fare in the countries of Central and West Africa.
• One of the leading leafy greens in Tirunelveli, India (as Celosia argentea).
• Used as a food plant in India, West Africa, and South America.

Further Information

• Discover Life: Biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution information.
• Dave's Garden: Gardening tips and ideas.
• Garden Guides: Plant information, identification, and uses.