Pink-spiked Celosia Seeds (Celosia argentea var. spicata)

Harvested from the gardens at Monticello.
This form of Celosia, which has been grown in the Monticello gardens since 1984, produces slender pale pink flower spikes in summer. It is similar to the light flesh-colored C. argentea linearis, introduced from China and eastern India in the early 18th century. American seed catalogs of the mid-1800s offered a 'Feathered Celosia', Celosia spicata rosea¸ with pinkish-colored flower spikes, 3-4 inches long, which could be dried like an "Everlasting, retaining both form and color". It was also called 'Lady's Finger'.

Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last spring frost in fertile, well-drained garden soil. Approximately 70-75 seeds per packet.