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How to Grow and Care for Dragon’s Breath Plant – Dragon Breath Celosia

If you are looking for a stunning ornamental plant that can add a touch of fiery color to your garden or patio, you might want to consider the Dragon’s Breath plant. This bushy annual plant is a cultivar of celosia argentea plumosa, also known as cockscomb or plume celosia. It features striking red foliage and blazing-red feathery flowers that resemble flames. The dragon’s breath plant is easy to grow and care for, and it thrives in heat and humidity. It is also long lasting and can be enjoyed from spring to fall. In this article, we will show you everything you need to know about growing and caring for this show-stopper plant.

What is dragon’s breath plant?

Dragon’s breath plant is a hybrid variety of celosia argentea plumosa, a type of annual plant that belongs to the amaranth family. Celosia argentea plumosa is native to tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and South America, where it grows as a perennial. However, in most parts of the world, it is grown as an annual plant that dies after one season. Celosia argentea plumosa has many cultivars that vary in size, shape, and color of the flowers and foliage. Dragon’s breath celosia is one of the most popular cultivars, developed by Sakata Seed Corporation in Japan. It was introduced to the market in 2015 and won several awards for its outstanding performance and appearance.

Dragon’s breath plant is a sun-loving plant that grows up to 24 inches (60 centimeters) tall and 18 inches (45 centimeters) wide. It has an upright and bushy habit, with green stems and leaves that turn red as the plant matures. The red foliage is one of the main attractions of this plant, as it creates a stunning contrast with the bright green surroundings. The red color becomes even more intense when the plant is exposed to direct sun and cooler temperatures at night. The foliage also has a soft and velvety texture that invites you to touch it.

….attraction

The other attraction of dragon’s breath celosia is its fiery red flowers that resemble plumes or flames. The flowers are actually clusters of tiny florets that form at the tips of the stems. They bloom from late spring to early fall, providing a long-lasting display of color. The flowers are also feathery and fluffy, adding a touch of whimsy and texture to the plant. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making this plant a great choice for pollinator gardens.

Dragon’s breath plant is an easy-to-grow plant that does not require much maintenance. It is drought tolerant once established, but prefers moist soil. And does not need much fertilizer, but benefits from occasional feeding with a well-balanced formula. Also It doesn’t need much pruning, but deadheading can encourage more blooms. It is also resistant to most pests and diseases, but may be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, powdery mildew, and slugs.

Dragon’s breath celosia is a versatile plant that can be grown in various settings. It can be planted in beds and borders, where it can create a stunning focal point or a colorful backdrop for other plants. Also can be grown in containers, where it can add a splash of color to your patio or balcony. It can even be grown indoors as a houseplant, provided that it receives enough light and humidity. Dragon’s breath celosia can also be used as a cut flower or a dried flower, as it retains its color and shape for a long time.

How to grow Dragon Breath Plant/Celosia from seed

One way to grow dragon’s breath plant is from seed. You can buy seeds online or from your local retailer. You can sow the seeds indoors or outdoors, depending on your climate and preference.

If you want to start the seeds indoors, you will need to do so about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. You will need some seed trays or pots filled with moist potting mix. Sprinkle the seeds lightly over the surface of the soil and press them gently with your fingers. Do not cover the seeds with soil, as they need light to germinate. Place the trays or pots in a warm and bright location, such as a windowsill or under a grow light. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and mist the seeds daily with water. The seeds should germinate within 7 to 14 days.

…..growing is fun

Once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves, you can transplant them into individual pots or larger containers. You can also thin out the seedlings if they are too crowded. Continue to keep the soil moist and provide plenty of light. You can also fertilize the seedlings once a week with a diluted liquid fertilizer.

When the danger of frost has passed, you can harden off the seedlings by exposing them gradually to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them in a shaded spot for a few hours a day, and then increase the time and sun exposure over a week or two. Once the seedlings are acclimated, you can plant them in your garden or containers. Choose a spot that receives full sun and has well-drained soil. Space the plants about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart, and water them well after planting.

If you want to sow the seeds directly outdoors, you will need to wait until after the last frost date in your area. You will also need to prepare the soil by loosening it and adding some organic matter, such as compost or manure. Rake the soil smooth and make shallow furrows about 1/4 inch (0.6 centimeter) deep. Scatter the seeds along the furrows and cover them lightly with soil. Water the area gently and keep it moist until the seeds germinate. Thin out the seedlings if they are too crowded, leaving about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) between each plant.

How to propagate dragon’s breath plant by cuttings

Another way to grow dragon’s breath plant is by cuttings. You can take cuttings from healthy and mature plants in late spring or early summer. You will need some sharp scissors or a knife, some rooting hormone, and some pots filled with moist potting mix.

Choose a stem that has at least three sets of leaves and no flowers. Cut off about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) from the tip of the stem, just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in some rooting hormone. Insert the cutting into a pot filled with moist potting mix, making sure that at least one leaf node is buried in the soil. Press the soil firmly around the cutting and water it well.

Place the pot in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sun. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and mist the cutting daily with water. The cutting should root within 2 to 4 weeks. You can check for roots by gently tugging on the cutting. If you feel some resistance, it means that roots have formed.

Once the cutting has rooted, you can transplant it into a larger container or your garden. Follow the same steps as for planting seedlings, choosing a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Water and fertilize the plant regularly, and enjoy its fiery display of foliage and flowers.

How to choose the best location and container for dragon’s breath plant

Dragon’s breath plant is a sun-loving plant that needs at least six hours of direct sun per day to thrive. It also prefers warm and humid conditions, so avoid planting it in cold or dry climates. Choose a spot that receives full sun and has well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or clayey, you can improve its drainage by adding some sand or gravel.

Dragon’s breath plant can be grown in containers as well as in beds and borders. If you choose to grow it in containers, make sure that they have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. You can use any type of container that suits your taste and budget, such as plastic, ceramic, metal, or wood. However, avoid using dark-colored containers that can absorb heat and overheat the roots.

How to water and fertilize dragon’s breath plant

Dragon’s breath plant likes its soil to be moist but not soggy, and it does not like to dry out completely. Water it regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Check the soil with your finger before watering, and water only when the top inch (2.5 centimeters) feels dry. Water thoroughly until the excess water drains out of the holes. Avoid watering the foliage and flowers, as this can cause fungal diseases or rot.

Dragon’s breath celosia does not need much fertilizer, as it can grow well in poor soil. However, you can boost its growth and flowering by applying a well-balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the label for the dosage and frequency. Do not over-fertilize, as this can cause the plant to produce more foliage and less flowers.

How to prune and deadhead Dragon’s Breath Plant

Dragon’s breath plant does not need much pruning, as it has a compact and tidy habit. However, you can prune it lightly to shape it or to remove any dead or damaged stems or leaves. Use sharp and clean scissors or pruners, and make clean cuts just above a leaf node or a branch.

Deadheading is the process of removing spent flowers to encourage more blooms and to prevent seed formation. Dragon’s breath celosia is a long-lasting plant that does not need much deadheading, as it produces new flowers continuously. However, you can deadhead it occasionally to keep it looking fresh and neat. Simply pinch off or cut off the faded flowers at their base, being careful not to damage the foliage or the new buds.

How to prevent and treat common pests and diseases of dragon’s breath plant

Dragon’s breath plant is a resilient plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to some common problems, such as:

Mealybugs:

These are small, white, cottony insects that suck the sap from the plant and leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and distorted flowers. To prevent them, avoid overwatering or overfertilizing your plant, and inspect it regularly for signs of infestation. To treat them, you can wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, spray them with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or release natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.

Spider mites:

These are tiny, red or green spiders that spin fine webs on the plant and feed on its juices. They can cause yellow spots, brown edges, and curling leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions, so avoid exposing your plant to direct sun or low humidity. To prevent them, mist your plant regularly with water, and keep it away from other infested plants. To treat them, you can spray them with water or insecticidal soap, or use a miticide according to the label instructions.

Aphids:

These are small, green or black insects that cluster on the stems and leaves and suck the sap from the plant. They can cause distorted growth, wilting leaves, and honeydew secretion. They can also transmit viral diseases to your plant. To prevent them, avoid overwatering or overfertilizing your plant, and inspect it regularly for signs of infestation. To treat them, you can wash them off with water or insecticidal soap, or release natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.

Powdery mildew:

This is a fungal disease that causes white or gray powdery patches on the leaves and stems. It can reduce photosynthesis and weaken the plant. It is favored by high humidity and poor air circulation. To prevent it, avoid watering the foliage and flowers of your plant, and provide adequate spacing between plants. To treat it, you can prune off the infected parts and dispose of them properly, or spray your plant with a fungicide according to the label instructions.

Slugs:

These are slimy creatures that feed on the leaves and flowers of your plant at night. They can cause holes, ragged edges, and slime trails on your plant. They are attracted by moist soil and mulch. To prevent them, avoid overwatering your plant or using organic mulch around it. To treat them, you can hand-pick them off your plant at night or use traps such as beer-filled containers or copper strips.

How to pair dragon’s breath celosia with other plants

Dragon’s breath celosia is a versatile plant that can be paired with other plants in various ways. Here are some suggestions:

You can create a stunning contrast by pairing dragon’s breath celosia with plants that have green foliage and flowers in complementary colors such as purple, blue, yellow, or white. For example, you can pair it with lavender, salvia, marigold, or daisy.

You can create a harmonious blend by pairing dragon’s breath celosia with plants that have similar colors or textures in their foliage or flowers. For example, you can pair it with coleus, begonia, or zinnia.
You can create a dynamic mix by pairing dragon’s breath celosia with plants that have different shapes or heights in their foliage or flowers. For example, you can pair it with grasses, ferns, or succulents.

How to use dragon’s breath plant as a cut flower or a dried flower

Dragon’s breath celosia is a great plant to use as a cut flower or a dried flower, as it retains its color and shape for a long time. Here are some tips on how to use it:

To use it as a cut flower, cut the stems when the flowers are fully open, preferably in the morning or evening. Cut them at an angle and place them in a vase of fresh water. Change the water every few days and remove any wilted leaves or flowers. You can also add some floral preservative to the water to extend the vase life of your flowers.
To use it as a dried flower, cut the stems when the flowers are fully open, preferably in the morning or evening. Tie them in small bunches and hang them upside down in a dark, dry, and well-ventilated place. Avoid direct sun or heat, as this can fade the color of your flowers. It may take two to four weeks for your flowers to dry completely. Once they are dry, you can use them in various arrangements or crafts.

Summary of the main points

Dragon’s breath celosia is a stunning ornamental plant that features red foliage and blazing-red feathery flowers that resemble flames.
Dragon’s breath celosia is easy to grow and care for, and it thrives in heat and humidity. It is also long lasting and can be enjoyed from spring to fall.
Dragon’s breath celosia can be grown from seed or by cuttings. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It does not need much water or fertilizer, but benefits from occasional feeding with a well-balanced formula. It doesn’t need much pruning, but deadheading can encourage more blooms. Also it’s resistant to most pests and diseases, but may be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, powdery mildew, and slugs.
Dragon’s breath celosia can be grown in various settings, such as beds and borders, containers, or indoors. It can also be paired with other plants in various ways, such as contrasting, blending, or mixing colors or textures. It can also be used as a cut flower or a dried flower, as it retains its color and shape for a long time.

We hope this article has helped you learn more about dragon’s breath celosia and how to grow and care for it. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below. Happy gardening! 😊

Frequently Asked Questions about Dragon’s Breath Celosia

Here are some of the most common questions and answers about dragon’s breath celosia, a stunning ornamental plant that features red foliage and blazing-red feathery flowers that resemble flames.

Is dragon’s breath plant an annual or perennial?

Dragon’s breath plant is an annual plant in most parts of the world, meaning that it dies after one season. However, in tropical regions where it is native, it can grow as a perennial plant, meaning that it can survive for more than one year.

How to care for dragon’s breath plant?

Dragon’s breath plant is easy to care for, as it does not require much maintenance. The celosia needs at least six hours of direct sun per day, well-drained soil, and regular watering. It doesn’t need much fertilizer, but benefits from occasional feeding with a well-balanced formula. Also does not need much pruning, but deadheading can encourage more blooms. It is resistant to most pests and diseases, but may be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, powdery mildew, and slugs.

How to plant dragon’s breath?

Dragon’s breath can be planted from seed or by cuttings. You can sow the seeds indoors or outdoors, depending on your climate and preference. If you sow them indoors, you will need to do so about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. If you sow them outdoors, you will need to wait until after the last frost date in your area. You can also propagate dragon’s breath by taking cuttings from healthy and mature plants in late spring or early summer. You will need to dip the cut end in some rooting hormone and insert it into a pot filled with moist potting mix.

Can dragon’s breath be an indoor plant?

Dragon’s breath can be grown indoors as a houseplant, provided that it receives enough light and humidity. You will need to place it in a bright and warm location, such as a windowsill or under a grow light. Also will also need to mist it regularly with water to increase the humidity level. You can also use a humidifier or a pebble tray filled with water to create a humid environment for your plant.

Can you duplicate dragon’s breath plant?

You can duplicate dragon’s breath plant by taking cuttings from healthy and mature plants in late spring or early summer. You will need to dip the cut end in some rooting hormone and insert it into a pot filled with moist potting mix. The cutting should root within 2 to 4 weeks, and then you can transplant it into a larger container or your garden.

Can dragon’s breath plant be brought in for winter months?

Dragon’s breath plant is an annual plant that dies after one season in most parts of the world. However, if you live in a mild climate where the temperature does not drop below freezing, you can try to overwinter your plant by bringing it indoors before the first frost. You will need to place it in a bright and cool location, such as a sunny window or a garage. You will also need to water it sparingly and stop fertilizing it until spring.

Is dragon’s breath plant poisonous?

Dragon’s breath plant is not poisonous to humans or animals, but it may cause some skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people or pets. If you or your pet come into contact with the plant and experience any symptoms such as itching, swelling, or rash, you should wash the affected area with soap and water and seek medical attention if necessary.

Is dragon’s breath plant poisonous to dogs?

Dragon’s breath plant is not poisonous to dogs, but it may cause some digestive upset or vomiting if ingested. If your dog eats any part of the plant, you should monitor its condition and contact your veterinarian if you notice any signs of distress or discomfort.

Is dragon’s breath plant a perennial?

Do dragon’s breath plants come back every year?

Dragon’s breath plants do not come back every year in most parts of the world, as they are annual plants that die after one season. However, in tropical regions where they are native, they can come back every year as perennial plants that can survive for more than one year.

Where to plant dragon’s breath?

Dragon’s breath can be planted in various settings, such as beds and borders, containers, or indoors. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, thrives in heat and humidity, but can tolerate some drought once established. It can also withstand some frost, but not freezing temperatures.

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