Tassel Flower
Emilia coccinea
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Pl. 2379 — Emilia coccinea
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IOverview
Overview
Tassel Flower, scientifically known as Emilia coccinea, is an annual forb or herb that thrives in a wide range of environments across multiple continents, from Africa and Asia to the Americas. Native to regions including Angola, Argentina Northeast, Assam, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Belize, Benin, Bolivia, and others, this plant has adapted to diverse habitats. It prefers full sun and can grow in various soil types, ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), withstanding dry to moist conditions. Tassel Flower is known for its edible leaves, making it a useful addition to gardens where it can reach heights of 0.6 meters. Its distinctive feature lies in its bright red inflorescences, which resemble tassels, hence the common name.
Quick answers
What is Tassel Flower?
Tassel Flower, scientifically known as Emilia coccinea, is an annual forb or herb that thrives in a wide range of environments across multiple continents, from Africa and Asia to the Americas.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tassel Flower thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. This annual plant reaches a height of 0.6 meters and is hardy in zones 8-11. Propagate by seed directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed. The edible parts are its leaves, which can be used in various culinary applications.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tassel Flower for the first time
8steps
Tassel Flower is a forgiving plant for beginners, making it an excellent choice for your first gardening project.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are consistently above 15°C (60°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil mix. Ensure containers have drainage holes if planting in pots.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors once the ground is warm, or start seedlings indoors 4-6 weeks before outdoor planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly every few months.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain a neat appearance. Remove any yellowing leaves as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of the Tassel Flower (Emilia coccinea) are edible and can be consumed fresh or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild flavor or added to soups and stews to enhance the dish. Skip preparation details as specific methods were not provided in the data.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Asia4 regions
native (4)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndia
Americas11 regions
native (11)BahamasBelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta RicaCubaDominican RepublicEcuadorEl SalvadorFrench GuianaGuatemala
Africa8 regions
native (8)BeninBotswanaBurundiCameroonChadDjiboutiEritreaGuinea-Bissau
Broader regions
native:Brazil West-Central, Central African Repu, East Himalaya, Florida, Argentina Northeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 23798d4a-ec7c-41d0-a524-08d46beacb27
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