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Annual Biennial

Celosia argentea var. cristata (Plumosa Group) 'Smart Look Red'

cockscomb 'Smart Look Red'

A uniform, bushy plant with vivid red flowers held to 42cm above broad, dark purple leaves

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring
Summer Purple Red Red Purple
Autumn Purple Red Red Purple
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Amaranthaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Celosia can be annuals, perennials or shrubs, with simple or lobed, alternate leaves and tiny, brightly coloured flowers in large, plume-like inflorescences. Many garden selections are closely related to C. argentea

Name status

Unresolved

How to grow

Cultivation

Annual that can be grown outside once frosts have passed. Grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full light with good ventilation. Outdoors, plant in moist but well-drained fertile soil in full sun in a sheltered position. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every two weeks

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Glasshouse red spider mite, glasshouse whitefly and aphids may be a problem under glass

Diseases

Foot and root rot and fungal leaf spot diseases may occur

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