Description
Celosia polygonoides (also called Polygon-leaved Cockscomb, among many other common names) is an annual herbaceous plant that grows up to 1.2 m tall. It is native to tropical regions of the Americas and Africa, and is found in disturbed habitats such as roadsides, fields, and gardens.
Uses & Benefits
Celosia polygonoides is used in traditional medicine for treating fever, inflammation, and skin diseases. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a food crop.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Celosia polygonoides has small, yellow flowers that are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence. The seeds are small, black and round. The seedlings are short and have small, oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Celosia polygonoides is a fast-growing, annual plant that is easy to propagate from seed. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but prefers sandy or loamy soils. It can be propagated from cuttings or by layering. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate temperatures down to -5°C.
Where to Find Celosia polygonoides
Celosia polygonoides is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America, including Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.