Ruby Parfait – Celosia Seed

Productive bouquet filler or accent flower.
Dark rose, arrow-shaped plumes. 2-3" textural flower spikes on full, branching plants can stand alone in a bouquet, be used as filler, or make a grand statement in the flower garden. A sweet and sturdy addition to boutonnières. Excellent vase life. Also known as wheat celosia, and red fox. Ht. 24-26". Avg. 35,100 seeds/oz. Packet: 25 seeds.

DAYS TO GERMINATION: 8-14 days at 70-80°F (21-27°C).

SOWING: Transplant: Sow 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Do not cover as light is required for germination. Bottom water or mist lightly to avoid covering the seeds with displaced soil. Grow seedlings at 63-68°F (17-20°C). Transplant to cell packs or larger containers when the first true leaves appear. Harden off and transplant outside when the danger of frost has passed. Low temperatures and less than 12 hours of light can cause premature flowering.

Direct seed: Direct seed only in locations with a long growing season. Sow seeds 4" apart, 1/8" deep after the danger of frost has passed. Thin to 6-12" apart.

Note: Pinching is not necessary for all species of Celosia, but is still recommended to increase branching (the number of stems and flower produced) and uniform flower size. Pinching is highly recommended for C. cristata and C. plumosa. To pinch, when plants are 8–12 inches tall, pinch the stem with your thumb and index finger or use sterilized scissors to remove the growing point.

LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Well-drained, moist, fertile soil high in organic matter.

PLANT SPACING: 6-12".

HARDINESS ZONES: Annual.

HARVEST: Fresh: Harvest when flowers are fully developed. Dried: Remove foliage and hang to dry.

USES: Excellent cut flower, fresh or dried. Borders, beds, and containers.

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Celosia spp.

ALTERNATE NAMES: Cockscomb, crested cock’s comb, prince of Wales feather, prince feather, wheat celosia, red fox