Cockscomb

An annual in the amaranth family, native from tropical Asia to Africa. Named for its inflorescence resembling a rooster's comb (keitou = 'rooster head'). An ancient ornamental introduced to Japan before the Nara period, mentioned in the Manyōshū as 'kara-ai'. Vibrant red, yellow, and orange crest-, plume-, and spike-shaped inflorescences are autumn flowerbed staples. Also used as a cut flower and dye plant.

Identification Points

• ✓Inflorescence crest-, plume-, or spike-shaped
• ✓Vivid red, yellow, orange, or pink
• ✓Lanceolate to ovate alternate leaves, 30–90 cm tall

Morphological TraitsAI-estimated, needs verification

Phylogenetic Positionヒユ科 →