1b. var. cristata (L.) Kuntze (cockscomb)

C. cristata L.

C. argentea f. cristata (L.) Schinz

Pl. 199 e

Stems relatively stout, often strongly ridged or fluted. Inflorescences fasciated, the main axis flattened and broaded into an irregular fan-shaped structure with flowers along the surface. 2n=36. July–October.

Introduced, uncommon and sporadic in Missouri (cultivated widely in tropical to temperate regions; escaping sporadically in the eastern U.S. west to Kansas and Louisiana). Banks of streams and rivers; also railroads, gardens, and open, disturbed areas.

The var. cristata is a cultigen that apparently was developed long ago through selection and breeding of various forms of the tetraploid (2n=36) cytotype of var. argentea (Robertson, 1981).