Celosia Dragon’s Breath is a fantastic specimen for anyone who is looking forward to growing an appealing plant!
Celosia Dragon’s Breath stands out with its ravishing display of red flowers that match beautifully with its green foliage! Here are all the details on how to grow it.
Celosia Dragon’s Breath Information
Celosia Dragon’s Breath is a cultivar or hybrid variety of Celosia argentea, a species native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia. While the exact origin of ‘Dragon’s Breath’ is not explicitly specified, it was likely bred and developed through selective breeding and hybridization by horticulturists or plant breeders.
The most distinctive feature of the plant is its striking flower spikes. They resemble flames or the crest of a dragon, hence the name. The flower spikes are upright and elongated, reaching heights of about 18-24 inches (45-60 cm).
The flowers are a rich, intense red color that can range from deep crimson to scarlet or burgundy. The color is long-lasting and doesn’t fade quickly, adding to its appeal.
The foliage is typically green and can vary in shape, from oval to lance-shaped, depending on the specific variety. The leaves provide a nice backdrop to the vibrant flower spikes.
Propagating Celosia Dragon’s Breath
Celosia Dragon’s Breath can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, or division. The easiest method for propagation is via stem cutting; here is a step-by-step guide for propagation.
- Choose a mature and healthy stem from the parent plant. Look for a stem that is not too woody or too young, ideally with a length of around 4 to 6 inches.
- Using a clean and sharp pair of pruning shears or scissors, make a clean cut just below a node (the point where leaves emerge) on the selected stem. Remove any lower leaves, leaving only a few leaves at the top intact.
- If desired, you can dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone powder or gel. This can help stimulate root development, although it is not necessary for all plants.
- Prepare a well-draining potting mix or propagation medium. Make a small hole in the soil using your finger or a pencil, and gently insert the cut end of the stem into the hole. Firmly press the soil around the stem to ensure good contact.
- Place the potted cutting in a warm and bright location with indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause excessive heat and drying. Maintain a consistent level of moisture in the soil by watering when the top inch of the soil feels dry.
- Keep a close eye on the cutting and ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Mist the leaves occasionally to provide some humidity. Within a few weeks, you should start to see new roots forming.
Best Pot for Celosia Dragon’s Breath
You can start Celosia Dragon’s Breath plant in a pot size of 8-10 inches, which will be good enough for a few years to come. Later on, depending on the growth and spread, re-pot it into a once size bigger pot than the old one.
Requirements for Growing Celosia Dragon’s Breath
Location
Celosia Dragon’s Breath requires full sunlight for around 4-5 hours per day. Place the plant in a south or west-facing location to maximize sun exposure.
Do not keep the plant in a shaded location, as it will make the flowers appear dull.
Soil
To ensure robust growth, it requires well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Adding perlite or vermiculite improves drainage and aeration. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Water
To ensure proper water care for Celosia Dragon’s Breath, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once or twice a week.
During the dormant period, reduce watering frequency but avoid letting the soil completely dry out. Be cautious of overwatering to prevent root rot.
Here are the best ways to water plants
Temperature and Humidity
Celosia Dragon’s Breath, being a sun-loving plant, prefers warm temperatures and can thrive even in challenging conditions.
The ideal daytime temperatures range from 68°F to 70°F (20°C to 21°C), which help develop healthy leaves, vibrant blooms, and robust growth. Nighttime temperatures should be between 50°F and 60°F (10°C and 15.5°C) for the plant’s red color to intensify.
This plant is not bothered by humidity levels. It can tolerate a range of humidity levels without any issues.
Celosia Dragon’s Breath Care
Fertilizer
Celosia Dragon’s Breath benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with a ratio such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.
Start fertilizing when the plants are actively growing, typically about two weeks after planting. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for application rates and frequency.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can result in lush foliage at the expense of flower production.
Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for aphids, spider mites, slugs, and snails, as well as symptoms of fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.
If necessary, use organic pest control methods like insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or horticultural oils to treat pest infestations. Follow the instructions on the product labels carefully.
Adequate spacing between the plants helps improve air circulation and reduces the risk of fungal diseases. Avoid overcrowding and provide enough space for each Celosia plant to thrive.
