Day 301: Cockscomb Celosia (Celosia cristata) has one of the most puzzling inflorescences I have ever seen. Hundreds of tiny, tightly fasciated flowers arise in a fan-shaped, crested raceme which resembles nothing so much as a huge chenille pipe-cleaner laid atop a wedge of velvet. The flowers are soft to the touch despite looking like they should be spiky, and the crest broadens as the inflorescence matures. These plants offer a variety of warm-hued blooms for the border (red, pink, yellow, maroon), reaching heights of approximately 12 inches at maturity. Leaf colour may be green or red/maroon. Easy to grow, they prefer well-drained soil and bright sun. Certainly they are a curiosity in the garden, and I find myself wondering what genetic advantage the unusual form might provide. Why, little plant? I must have the answer!
No comments:
Post a Comment