Cockscomb Seeds (Celosia argentea var. cristata)

Thomas Jefferson noted the planting of seeds of "Cockscomb", "a flower like the Prince's feather", in 1767. He may have been referring to the crested form of Celosia with its strange scarlet combs that are furrowed and lobed. Still today, the shockingly curious flowers of the Cockscomb delight visitors to Monticello. The seeds in this packet are Cramer's Burgundy, a prolific, well-branched variety that produces wine-colored blooms 2-6" wide. Jefferson-documented: This plant was documented by Thomas Jefferson in his Garden Book, Notes on the State of Virginia, or other writings.

Direct sow cockscomb seeds outdoors after the last spring frost. Alternatively, start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost, then harden off and transplant outdoors after last frost. Approximately 70-75 cockscomb seeds per packet.