Celosia argentea

Celosia argentea is the species behind plumed and cockscomb celosias — fiery feathery plumes and velvety crests in red, orange, gold, pink and magenta on a heat-loving annual.
  • Cockscomb seeds (Celosia argentea) – annual mix Cockscomb (Celosia argentea) – annual mix seeds from SeedsChoice
    20%
    Cockscomb Seeds Celosia Argentea Annual Mix
    €3,56€4,45

    Annual mix for bold summer flower displays cockscomb seeds bring striking texture and vivid color to seasonal borders, patio planters, and balcony containers. This annual mix is selected for distinctive crested and plume-like blooms, making...
  • Mix Plumosa Cut seeds (Celosia argentea) – annual flower Mix Plumosa Cut (Celosia argentea) – annual flower seeds from SeedsChoice
    20%
    Celosia Seeds Celosia Argentea Annual Mix Plumosa Cut Flower
    €3,56€4,45

    Celosia annual mix for bold summer color celosia seeds offer a vibrant annual display with feathery, plume-like flower heads in a mixed colour range. This annual mix is commonly associated with Celosia argentea and is...
  • Ice Cream Mixed seeds (Celosia argentea) – annual mix Ice Cream Mixed (Celosia argentea) – annual mix seeds from SeedsChoice
    20%
    Celosia Seeds Ice Cream Mixed Celosia Argentea Annual
    €3,96€4,95

    Ice Cream Mix Celosia For Sunny Borders celosia seeds ‘Ice Cream’ Mixed are an eye-catching choice for colourful summer displays, offering soft, feathery plumes in a lively mix of shades. This annual flower is valued...
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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

At SeedsChoice, every order ships from Meppel, NL with fast, tracked EU delivery.

What is the difference between plumed and cockscomb celosia?
Both are forms of Celosia argentea: the plumosa group has soft feathery plumes, while the cristata group has tightly crested, brain-like cockscombs. Is celosia an annual?
Yes — in our climate it is a frost-tender annual that loves heat and is sown fresh each year. When should I sow Celosia argentea seeds?
Sow under cover in spring and plant out only once nights are mild. See our flower sowing calendar for timing. Can celosia be dried?
Yes — both plumes and crests dry well and hold their bold colour for striking everlasting displays.