Celosia ‘Arrabona Red’

Cutflower celosias sold at a Brooklyn, NY market

Celosias (Celosia argentea), aka cockscomb, feather, and plume amaranths, are summer flowering annuals in most of the U.S. (USDA hardiness zones 10-11). Mature plant height varies by cultivars, generally between 6 inches and 3 feet in height, taller types grown for the florist market. Celosia plants are classified into three groups: a crested type (C. cristata), plume type (C. plumosa), and spike or wheat type (C. spicata).

Celosias prefer full-day sun, although a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight is adequate. A compost rich, mildly acidic, well-drained garden soil is ideal. Plants are set outdoors in the garden when spring daytime temperatures stay above 60 °F. Add 2-3 inches of an organic mulch after planting and deeply water newly set plants. Mulching aids to suppress weed infestation and in soil water loss from evaporation. Celosias are not water hogs, but need irrigation during long summer dry spells.

At planting time apply a slow release granulated fertilizer such as Osmocote™ or Nutrikote™ according to package directions.  Over the summer months, if plants need additional feeding, use a water-soluble fertilizer such as Miracle-Gro™ or Jacks™ every 2-3 weeks through mid-September. With taller cockscomb varieties, tie flower stalks to stakes to keep them from falling over; or simply pinch back shoots by one-half to develop a bushier plant. In addition, remove spent flowers to promote new blooms.

Celosia is rarely troubled by disease and insect problems. Inspect plants for mites over a hot dry summer. Good soil drainage is absolutelyessential to avoid root rot problems. Leading plumosa varieties: ‘Arrabona’, ‘Fresh Look’, ‘Dragon’s Breath’, ‘Prestige Scarlet’. ‘Intenz’,  Century® series, and ‘Flamingo Feathers’ are spike type celosia. Cristata types include Bombay® and Kimono® series. Floral color range is purple, deep red, wine red, gold, and yellow gold.