This bedding annual forms a leafy clump with bright coloured plumes that stand erect above the foliage. It has mid green leaves and there are 2-types flowers, the feathery Plumose group and the Cockscombs (brain looking) Cristata group and appear in summer.

Hardiness zones 10 to 12

Celosia cristata is naturally found in tropical America growing in well drained fertile moist light soils in a wind protected sunny position and is frost and drought tender.

Cockscomb is grown for its colourful flowers and is used for bedding displays in parks and gardens or used in patios pots. It establishes in one year and is more vigorous in warm climates. It is also planted along low fromt borders and the long lasting flower may be cut for floral arrangements or used as dried flowers. ID 240

Celosia(se-LO-see-uh) cristata (kris-tah-ta)

'Celosia': from Greek kelos - burnt (refers to the flame-colour of the flowers); 'cristata': crested or plumed (refers to the cockscomb flower shape). Syn. C. argentea var. cristata - 'argentea': silver.

Amaranthaceae (AM-ar-an-THAY-see-e)