Celosia is a small genus of edible and ornamental plants in the amaranth family, Amaranthaceae. Species are commonly known as woolflowers, or if the flower heads are crested by fasciation, cockscombs. The plants are well known in East Africa's highlands and are used under their Swahili name, mfungu.
The plant is an annual. Depending upon the location and fertility of the soil, blossoms can last 8-10 weeks.
Celosia argentea var. argentea or Lagos spinach (a.k.a. quail grass, soko, celosia, feather cockscomb) is a broadleaf annual leaf vegetable. It grows widespread across Mexico, where it is known as "velvet flower", northern South America, tropical Africa, the West Indies, South, East and Southeast Asia where it is grown as a native or naturalized wildflower, and is cultivated as a nutritious leafy green vegetable. It is traditional fare in the countries of Central and West Africa, and is one of the leading leafy green vegetables in Nigeria, where it is known as ‘soko yokoto’, meaning "make husbands fat and happy". In Spain it is known as "Rooster comb" because of its appearance.[citation needed]
As a grain, Celosia is a pseudo-cereal, not a true cereal.
These leaves, young stems and young inflorescences are used for stew, as they soften up readily in cooking. The leaves also have a soft texture and a mild spinach-like taste.
Woolflower or cockscomb -- Celosia plumosa
Cultivation
Silver cockscomb Celosia argentea in Tirunelveli, India
Despite its African origin, Celosia is known as a foodstuff in Indonesia and India.
Works well in humid areas and is the most-used leafy plant in Nigeria. It grows in the wet season and grows well while other plants succumb to mold and other diseases like mildew. Though a very simple plant, Celosia does need moderate soil moisture.
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