Celosia argentea (Spicata Group) 'Spiky Purple'
'Spiky Purple' is a bushy annual with a slightly more unusual appearance than other argentea varieties in that it has clusters of purple flower heads rather than individual spikes. These appear from summer until early autumn
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Purple | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Native to the UK
- 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 loam-based potting compost (JI No 1) in full light with good ventilation. Moist but well-drained fertile soil in full sun in a sheltered position. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- 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
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.