Celosia aka Dragon's Breath Celosia

Taxonomy

Celosia, also known as woolflowers or cockscombs, is a small genus of edible and ornamental plants in the amaranth family, Amaranthaceae. These plants are appreciated for their colorful and fluffy flowers that rise above the leaves, and come in a variety of sizes. They are native to the tropical regions of Asia and Africa, and are well known in East Africa's highlands, where they are used under their Swahili name, mfungu. One particular type of celosia, Dragon's Breath Celosia, is a relatively rare houseplant that needs regular watering and long-lasting, direct light to thrive. It should be placed less than 1 foot from a window.

Common names

Dragon's Breath Celosia, Cock's Comb

How to care for Dragon's Breath Celosia

Difficulty

Dragon's Breath Celosia presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Dragon's Breath Celosia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Dragon's Breath Celosia loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Dragon's Breath Celosia thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Dragon's Breath Celosia.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Humidity

The Dragon's Breath Celosia does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.

Region of origin

Dragon's Breath Celosia’s native range is Tropical Americas, Africa, and the Middle East.


More info:
Wikipedia