Cockscomb

!!!!!!!!!!!!! A Weird & Wonderful Plant/Flower A&J :)

Would love to know what it is! Andy

It sure is Speacial Andy id like to know 2 :)

What IS that ? :-)

Dear all, I've managed to find out what this is:

The plant is the cockscomb, Celosia cristata. Closely related to the Amaranths (Love lies bleeding, Princes Feather), The convoluted flowerheads look a little like the crest of a cockerel, hence the name. Colours range from deepest red through pink and golden yellow to pale lemon yellow.

They are annual plants which grow well in high temperatures, humidity seems to help although too much moisture causes the plants to rot. They make good indoor pot plants for a sunny position or are splendid for tubs on a sheltered warm patio.

To grow successfully from seed you need a heated greenhouse or propagator. Seeds of the dwarf species (6-12" tall) are available from many seed companies, but taller varieties( up to 3ft, as Gilbert White grew) are more difficult to find. Chiltern seeds (Bortree Stile, Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 7PB, www.chilternseeds.co.uk) stock both dwarf and taller forms, including a bright red japanese variety which is good for cut flowers. A variety called 'Triangle' is also available and is often used by florists.

Rgds

Andy

Great, thanks Andy :-)

Thanx 4 the PM Andy/Jill X