Celosia Seeds,
Eternity Mix

4.85 ReviewsSKU #FL635 · 50 seeds
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Description

Celosia is believed to have been introduced to Japan in the 8th century, where the young leaves have been used as an edible green, the colorful heads have been rendered into natural dye, and plants were traditionally burned in homes to deter mice. This mix leans into that long relationship with color. In about 85 days, Eternity Mix Celosia blooms in tones that call to mind a fruit bowl—blood orange, Meyer lemon, raspberry, and tangerine—carried on flowery, fluffy heads known in Japanese as fusagaito. Plants reach about 2 to 2.5 feet tall and work well in beds, borders, containers, and for cut flowers, bringing a bright, warm range without fuss.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Celosia argentea
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
14–21
Days to Maturity
85
Planting Depth
⅛ in.
Plant Spacing
8–12 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–70°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Begin indoors 3 to 4 weeks before transplanting out after your last frost, or direct sow in place once the frost date has passed. Keep seed at 75-80 F under a light covering of fine, moist soil; sprouts appear in 14 to 21 days. Set plants 8 to 12 inches apart in full sun, and expect the first fruit-toned heads about 85 days from sowing.

How to Sow and Plant

  • Seeds germinate in 14-21 days.
  • Surface sow seeds and cover with a layer of soil, making sure that seeds are well covered, as light inhibits germination.
  • Direct sow in place after last frost or start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost.
  • Ideal germination temperature is 65-70 F.

How to Grow

  • Celosia can handle a wide range of soil and they appreciate full sun.
  • Space 9-12 inches apart. Plants range in height from dwarf to 3.5 feet tall depending on variety.
  • While the plants are considered drought-tolerant, keep them well-watered during germination and establishment as water stress can cause premature blooming.
  • Cut flower growers should pinch the main growing stem when plants reach 12 inches tall to encourage multiple branching versus single chunky stems.

PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

  • Typically pest-free, though aphids may be a problem but can be treated with organic insecticidal soap.
  • This warm weather-loving plant may suffer from botrytis and rot if consistently exposed to temperatures cooler than 60 F and high humidity. Space plants farther apart to promote better air circulation and do not plant too early when the weather is still cold.

How to Save Seeds

  • Flowers are mostly self-pollinating, but insects can cross-pollinate different varieties. In order to prevent errant insect pollination, separate different varieties by 1/4 mile.
  • Save seeds when flower heads have turned brown; just place heads in a paper bag and shake seeds free.
  • Keep seeds in a cool, dry dark place.
  • Seeds remain viable for 3-5 years when stored properly.

FAQ

What colors are in the Eternity Mix?

Blood orange, Meyer lemon, raspberry, and tangerine tones, a fruit-bowl range of flowery, fluffy heads known in Japanese as fusagaito.

Will it grow in containers?

Yes. At 2 to 2.5 feet tall, the plants are excellent for beds, borders, containers, and cut flower use.

How has celosia traditionally been used in Japan?

Celosia is believed to have been introduced to Japan in the 8th century. There the young leaves have been used as an edible green, the colorful heads have been rendered into a beautiful natural dye, and the plants were traditionally burned in the home to deter mice.

Customer reviews

4.8 / 5 5 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Vibrant colors: Orange, yellow and red heads with striking texture, true to photo.

  • Sturdy stems: Upright plants with plenty of side shoots and no staking needed.

  • Easy to grow: Easy from seed indoors or sown straight into the bed.

  • Growing tips: Slow to get going; start indoors to enjoy blooms sooner.