Water
Water consistently, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months when growth slows.
Ensure good drainage in pots and garden beds.
Celosia nitida, the West Indian cock's comb, is a striking ornamental plant with vibrant, feathery blooms, thriving in warm climates and adding a tropical flair to garden
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months when growth slows.
Ensure good drainage in pots and garden beds.
Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth. Remove spent flower stalks regularly to promote continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding if unwanted.
Light pruning can also be done to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged foliage.
Easily grown from seed sown in spring, either directly outdoors after the last frost or started indoors 4-6 weeks prior. Cuttings can also be taken from healthy, non-flowering shoots in late spring or early summer and rooted in moist, well-draining soil or perlite.
Young plants may need repotting annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of West Indian Cock's Comb (Celosia nitida)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Celosia |
| Species | Celosia nitida |
Similar in genus Celosia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
