Flower Of The Month Celosia

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Celosia are very unusual flowers in shape and texture, they come in bright pinks,reds,white, purple,yellows and oranges. There are three varieties pyramidal-is which looks like prince of� Wales feathers,spicata very similar to heads of wheat and crista which can be likened to a piece of coral or a psychedelic brain. Family Name : Amaranthaceae Country of Origin : Africa, Asia Availability : All year round,mainly spring and summer. Stem Length : 30 to 60 cm When Buying Look For * The flowers are fully developed and brightly coloured * Buds do not open in the vase * Avoid bunches with yellow leaves. Flower Care * Keep cool at all times * Strip leaves from bottom half of each stem * Re-cut at least 2cm off each stem and place in water. * Leaves turn yellow and rot before flowers wilt, so strip as many leaves off as possible. * Always use a preservative as this will keep� open flowers looking fresh. Drying Tips Cut the feathers and cockscombs when the blooms are fully developed. Tape the stems upside down to a coat-hanger and cover the blooms with a brown paper bag to obtain the richest colours. Hang in a dark draft free room for approximately three weeks until fully dried. Trivia : Did you know that the name Celosia comes from the Greek word "kelos" meaning "burned" referring to the flowers colour. Did you know that according to the language of flowers celosia means "silliness"