Celosia

There are many different ornate varieties of Celosia, yet Celosia argantea is used as a leafy green vegetable similar to spinach throughout Africa, India, and Indonesia. It is the leading leafy green vegetable consumed in West Africa where it is also known as ‘Lagos spinach.’ Its name in the Yoruba language is “sokoyokoto” or “the vegetable that makes your husband’s face rosey.” In Nigeria, Celosia leaves are stewed in a red sauce with crayfish and meats is referred to as “Efo riro.’ It is also well-known in the East African highlands, where it is referred to as ‘mfungu’ in Swahili.  In parts of India, Celosia is cooked and mashed in a dish called, “Keerai masiyal”.   Celosia is widespread in the Americas, particularly Mexico and the southern region of the U.S. as an ornamental where it is referred to as ‘cockscomb’ due to the vibrantly colored flowers. Contemporary Florida gardeners are beginning to grow edible celosia as a summertime alternative cool-weather spinach.