Scarlet Sage
Forest Fire Celosia is a vibrant annual flower that commands attention with its densely packed, bright red spikes rising 25-30 inches tall. This Celosia plumosa cultivar thrives in full sun across hardiness zones 3-11, reaching blooming maturity in 70-79 days and performing reliably throughout summer heat. Whether you're seeking a bold centerpiece for cutting gardens or a dramatic focal point in flower beds, Forest Fire delivers the sophisticated color punch that turns heads.
Full Sun
—
3-11
30in H x ?in W
Annual, Perennial
Moderate
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What sets Forest Fire apart is its reputation as a high performer that maintains color and form through summer's toughest conditions. The densely packed spires create visual drama that few annuals can match, rising to a substantial 30 inches to add real height and structure to garden beds. Gardeners prize this variety specifically for its ability to anchor arrangements and create the bold red accent that ties garden designs together.
Forest Fire Celosia is grown primarily as a cut flower and garden ornamental. The tall, densely flowered spikes are prized by florists and home gardeners for fresh arrangements, where their striking red color and sturdy stems make them reliable performers in bouquets. The plants also serve as outstanding focal points and back-of-border specimens in landscape design.
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost, keeping soil temperature around 70-75°F for reliable germination. Maintain consistent moisture and provide bright light once seedlings emerge.
Transplant outdoors after the last frost date when soil has warmed and daytime temperatures consistently reach 60°F or higher. Harden off seedlings over 7-10 days before moving to their final garden location.
Cut flowers when the spikes are fully formed and have achieved their characteristic bright red color, typically 70-79 days after planting. Cut stems in the early morning for maximum vase life. For dried arrangements, harvest when spikes are fully mature and allow them to dry in a cool, airy location.
No pruning is necessary for Forest Fire Celosia. Simply deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage continued blooming throughout the season, or allow them to remain for dried flower arrangements.
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