
Lagos Spinach (Celosia argentea)
Regular price $14.95Celosia argentea, or Lagos spinach may be the “prettiest of all vegetable crops,” but like many of the plants cultivated for food in parts of tropical Africa, it’s more than just a pretty face. Celosia argentea is used as an ornamental in gardens worldwide, but it is not often planted for food outside of West Africa. It is an important source of spinach in Nigeria and Benin. The nutritious composition of this African spinach, and its nature to flourish in malnourished soils make it a good contender for food forests.
Lagos spinach grows naturally in the humid lowlands of Africa, where rainfall and sunshine are abundant. Celosia argentea is a fairly easy-to-grow plant that will grow easily, despite its glossy, frivolous-looking flowers that will bloom in the late summer.
Plant Type
Tropical, Herbaceous Annual
Harvest Season
Harvest leaves, young stems, and young flower stalks 4 to 5 weeks after sowing
Soil & Moisture
Rich, moist, well-draining soil high in organic matter
Light Requirements
Full Sun, Part Shade, Full Shade
Self-Fertile
Yes
Growth Rate
Fast
Zone Hardiness
Outdoors 10-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation