Celosia argentea

Celosia argentea — plumed & cockscomb celosia

Celosia argentea is the botanical name behind the flamboyant plumed and crested celosias — brilliant feathery plumes and velvety, brain-like cockscombs in fiery red, orange, gold, pink and magenta. It is the species behind our celosia range within the flower seed collection.

History & origin

Celosia is native to the warm tropics of Africa and Asia, where it has long been grown both as a leafy vegetable and as a brilliant ornamental. Its heat-loving nature still shows in the garden, where it thrives in the warmth of high summer.

The names tell the story: Celosia comes from the Greek kelos, “burned,” for the flame-like flowerheads, while argentea means “silvery,” describing the small, shimmering seed-bearing flowers.

Botanical characteristics

An upright, frost-tender annual, celosia carries dense flowerheads in two main forms — soft, pointed plumes (the plumosa group) and tightly fasciated, wavy crests (the cristata group, or cockscomb) — above fresh green or bronze-tinted foliage. The bold colours and curious textures make it a favourite among our cut flowers, and it dries well too as a striking dried flower.

Growing Celosia argentea from seed

Celosia needs warmth and steady growth — any check from cold sets it back. Sow under cover in spring, barely covering the seed, and keep it warm; plant out only once nights are reliably mild, into a sunny, sheltered spot with rich, moist soil. Our flower growing guide and flower sowing calendar cover the timing.

Ready to grow celosia? Browse the varieties or learn the basics first.

Related categories: Celosia · Cut Flowers · Dried Flowers · Annual Flowers · All Flower Seeds

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