Celosia

Scientific Name: Celosia spp.

Common Names: Cockscomb, Woolflower, Fire Celosia

Native to: Tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas

Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade. Thrives in bright, direct sunlight.

Height: 12 to 36 inches, depending on the variety

Width: 6 to 12 inches, depending on the variety

Winter Look: Usually grown as an annual, it dies back in winter in colder climates.

Seasonal Interest: Summer to fall, with vibrant, colorful flowers that last for a long time.

Drought Tolerance: Moderate. Tolerates dry conditions once established but prefers consistent moisture.

Soil Requirements: Well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic to neutral soil.

pH Range: 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 10 to 11 (typically grown as an annual in colder zones)

Deer Resistance: Moderate. Deer tend to avoid it but may nibble if other food is scarce.

Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Potential Issues: Susceptible to fungal diseases, aphids, and mealybugs.

Notes: Celosia is known for its unique and showy flowers, which come in bright shades of red, orange, yellow, and pink. It can be used as an ornamental plant in flower beds or containers and is popular for dried flower arrangements due to its long-lasting blooms. 

Their bloom shapes distinguish 3 types of celosia.

Cockscomb - Brain or Coral-like blooms.

Plumed - Multiple feathery bloom stalks (I've seen this one the most here).

Wheat - Single-stalked blooms that look like grain crops.

Fun fact: The leaves of this plant are edible. They're said to taste like spinach, turning bitter after flowering.