Overview
Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa, commonly known as "Globe Amaranth", is a member of the Amaranth family. This plant is an annual herb with bright colors, and it is cultivated worldwide for ornamental and medicinal purposes.Origin and Natural Habitat
Originally from Central and South America, globe amaranth is now cultivated in all regions with tropical and subtropical climates. It is a hardy and adaptable plant that thrives in a variety of soils.Common Names
Globe amaranth is known by many common names, including Bachelor's Button, Makhmali, Tassel Flower, Globe flower, and Gomphrena globosa.Appearance
Globe amaranth is a small, bushy plant that grows up to 60 cm in height. Its flowers are arranged in clusters, which can be red, purple, pink, white, or orange, and its leaves are ovate to elliptical. This plant blooms from mid-summer until the first frost.Uses
Globe amaranth is primarily grown for ornamental purposes in gardens and borders. Its long-lasting flowers are popular in cut-flower arrangements, and it is used in traditional medicine for treating a variety of ailments. The leaves, flowers, and roots of globe amaranth contain antioxidants and bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective properties. In addition, the seeds of this plant are used in cooking and for making a purple dye. In conclusion, Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa, commonly known as Globe Amaranth, is a versatile plant with ornamental and medicinal values. Its bright, colorful flowers and hardy growth make it a popular choice for gardens and cut-flowers. It is an admirable plant that embellishes the environment and has multiple other purposes.Light Requirements
The plant Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa requires full sun to grow optimally. It can tolerate partial shade, but its growth may be stunted, and it may not produce as many flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa is between 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate high temperatures of up to 35°C, but it may start to wilt if exposed to temperatures above 40°C for a prolonged period. The plant does not tolerate frost and should be protected from it at all times.
Soil Requirements
The plant Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range between 5.5 to 6.5. The plant thrives in soils that are moist but not water-logged. It does not tolerate soils that are too dry or too wet.
Cultivation Methods
Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa grows well in loamy soil that is well-drained and has good air circulation. The ideal plant hardiness zones for this plant are 2 to 11. This plant thrives in full sun, and it requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunshine every day. Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa can be propagated by seeds in USDA hardiness zones 2 to 7 and by cuttings in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11. It is best to plant during the spring and summer season and avoid planting during periods of heavy rainfall.
Watering Needs
Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa requires moderate watering. This plant dislikes drought, and it is best to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Consistent watering is necessary until the seedlings establish themselves. Later on, watering once every other day will be sufficient. Daily watering should be done in extremely hot weather or arid environments.
Fertilization
Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa requires fertilization regularly for optimum growth. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer should be used once a month, starting from the first month of growth. If necessary, supplement with a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. However, over-fertilization should be avoided as it may lead to excessive foliage growth, poor flowering, and weak stems.
Pruning
Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa requires minimal pruning. The plant has good branching and does not require heavy thrust of pruning. However, pruning, which includes removing dead flowers and stems may be done to encourage flowering and healthy branch development. Over-pruning must be avoided as it may damage the plant and reduce the bloom production. Pruning should only be done on an as-needed basis and should not be a routine practice.
Propagation of Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa
Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa is through seeds. The seeds should be sown in well-prepared soil in spring or summer. The ideal soil temperature for germination is between 20°C to 25°C. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until they germinate, usually within 14 to 21 days. Once the seedlings have grown four or more leaves, they can be transplanted to the desired location.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be approximately 4-5 inches in length and stripped of all but the top few leaves. The base of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and warm until they root, usually within two to three weeks.
Division Propagation
Dividing Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa is another method of propagation. This is best done in the spring when the plant is just emerging from dormancy. The clump should be dug up, and the root system separated into smaller sections. Each section should have a portion of the crown and several healthy roots. The divided clumps can be replanted in a new location with well-draining soil and kept moist until established.
Disease Management
Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa plants are prone to various fungal and bacterial diseases. It is essential to maintain good hygiene practices and regularly monitor the plants to prevent the occurrence of diseases.
Some of the common diseases that affect the Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa plants include:
- Powdery Mildew: It appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, use a fungicide and avoid overhead irrigation.
- Leaf Spot: It is characterized by the appearance of circular or irregular spots on the leaves that eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove the affected foliage and apply a copper fungicide.
- Fusarium Wilt: Celosia plants infected with this disease develop yellow leaves that wilt and eventually die. The lower stem also turns brown and soft, leading to the plant's death. To manage Fusarium wilt, remove the infected plants and avoid planting in the same soil for three years.
Pest Management
Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa plants are also susceptible to pest infestations. Regular monitoring of the plants is vital to detect infestations early enough and take the necessary control measures.
Some of the common pests that affect the Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa plants include:
- Aphids: They are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and distort. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: They are tiny pests that cause yellowing of leaves and the appearance of webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cutworms: They are nocturnal and cut the stem of young plants at the ground level, leading to their death. To manage cutworms, use insecticides that contain Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or place collars around the base of the plants.
By following good cultural practices, regular monitoring, and appropriate management measures, it is possible to control diseases and pests that affect Celosia globosa Schinz var. globosa plants.
