Japanese Celosia - Higyoku Red Stem

This red-tinged Japanese variety is totally gorgeous from leaf to flower! The burgundy foliage and stems are offset by the most striking vermillion heads, making it a bold choice for beds, borders, containers, and more. The plants stand 2 to 2.5 feet tall with multiple branches that produce heads ranging in size from small pokers to tightly ruffled fist-sized crests or cockscombs. With its sturdy, multi-branching habit, this versatile type is great for arrangements, and it also makes a deep crimson-colored herbal tea. 

25 organic seeds

KEY GROWING INFORMATION

DAYS TO GERMINATION:

8-14 days at 70-80°F (21-27°C). Bottom water or mist lightly to avoid displacing seeds and soil.

SOWING:

Transplant (recommended) - Sow into 72-cell flats or preferred seedling container 6-8 weeks before planting out. Light is required for germination; cover very lightly to hold seeds in place. Grow seedlings at 63-68°F (17-20°C). Harden off and transplant out after danger of frost. Direct seed - Only in locations with a long growing season. Sow 1/8" deep, after last frost. Low temperatures and less than 12 hours of light can cause premature flowering.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:

Sun.

PLANT HEIGHT:

16"–30" tall and about 8" wide

PLANT SPACING:

6-12".

HARDINESS ZONES:

Annual.

HARVEST:

Celosia is exceptional as a cut flower and can be used both fresh and dried. Fresh - Harvest when the flowers are fully developed, and stems are firm at the base of the bloom. Dried - Harvest at the same stage of growth as you would for fresh flowers. Remove all the foliage and hang in a dark, well-ventilated location to dry.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:

Well-drained, moist, fertile soil high in organic matter. pH of 6.0-7.0 preferred.

USES:

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