Cockscomb, Celosia
July 12, 2005
The cockscombs are edible and ornamental plants named for their brightly colored flower heads, comprising the genus Celosia of the family Amaranthaceae (subfamily Amaranthoideae). They are similar in appearance and uses to the amaranths.
Silver cockscomb is grown as a leaf vegetable and pseudo-cereal, especially in West and Central Africa and Southeast Asia. It is also the most important leaf vegetable of southern Nigeria.
The crested cockscomb is a common garden ornamental plant in China and other places.