Large-leaved cultivars of the plumed cockscomb, Celosia argentea, are traditionally used as soup vegetables, animal feed, and a remedy for snake bites.
The flowers are also fit for human consumption as well as for surface-treating eczema. Fairly rich in micronutrients and vitamin C, the leaves are lightly steamed before consumption.
The crested variety of cockscomb, Celosia argentea var. cristata, is named after its uniquely fasciated panicles resembling a rooster’s comb. A perennial plant in tropical and subtropical climates but annual in our region, it reproduces easily by seeds and thrives in sunlit, semi-shade and dry areas alike. It grows up to 30 to 35 cm tall but there are also dwarf cultivars out there. Blooming till the first frosts, the flamboyant inflorescences, ranging between red, orange, yellow and purple, are used as both dried and cut flowers in floristry.
Come check out our magnificent cockscombs in beds along the passage between our Zoo and Amusement Park as well as in stone pots throughout the premises.
Debrecen Zoo and Amusement Park
