Grow Celosia Flowers for a Beautiful Fall Garden

Celosia is popular for its striking flowers that bloom in shades of a glowing autumn sunset. The plant’s name originates from the Greek word, ‘keleos,’ which means ‘burning,’ a reference to the colorful blooms.  Depending on the variety, fall celosia flowers may be feathery or velvety to the touch.

What celosia varieties are available?

There are three cultivars of celosia available to grow from seed or nursery plants:

Cockscomb Celosia blooms in crested, velvety-textured flower heads. The blooms are often large and heavy, so the plants may need to be staked. Cockscomb celosia grows up to 36 inches in height.

Plumed Celosia blooms in multiple feathery flowers that resemble flames. This celosia cultivar grows up to 24 inches in height.

Wheat Celosia grows in a singular flower stalk which resembles a sheaf of wheat. Wheat celosia grows up to 36 inches in height.

What bloom colors are available?

• Burgundy (Cockscomb Celosia ‘Cramer’s Burgundy’)
• Orange (Cockscomb Celosia ‘Twisted Orange’)
• Pink (Feather Celosia ‘Intenz Classic’) or (Wheat Celosia ‘Cramer’s Amazon’)
• Purple (Feather Celosia ‘Flamingo Feather Purple’)
• Red (Feather Celosia ‘New Look’)
• White (Cockscomb Celosia ‘Amish White’)
• Yellow (Cockscomb Celosia ‘Twisted Yellow’)

Depending on the variety, celosia is also available in a variety of interesting foliage colors, including:

• Blue/green
• Chartreuse/gold
• Purple/burgundy

What planting zones are best for growing celosia?

Celosia plants are native to the tropical areas of Asia, Africa, and North and South America.

Celosia thrives as an annual in U.S.D.A. zones 2 to 9. It thrives as a perennial in zones 10 to 12.

Fall Celosia Care

Soil Requirements – Use well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Celosia plants prefer soil with a pH of 6-6.5.

Sun Requirements – Celosia prefers a full sun location in the garden – at least six hours of sun per day.

Moisture Needs – Celosia requires regular watering. Keep the soil slightly moist and don’t overwater plants. Add water when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil are dry. Improve soil drainage by mixing in compost or sand before you plant.

Fertilization – Before planting, mix a balanced, general-purpose fertilizer into the soil. Afterward, fertilize celosia once a month with liquid fertilizer– an NPK ratio of 15-30-15 or 10-10-10 is best. Fertilize plants every other week when blooms start to appear.

Pests and Disease – Celosia plants are susceptible to aphids and spider mites. Fungal diseases such as leaf spot or stem rot may occur.  Celosia is especially prone to root rot if grown in poor-draining soil. Spray affected plants with an organic pesticide or fungicide if needed.

Mulching – Celosia will benefit from a layer of mulch. Mulch helps to retain moisture near the roots and also deters weed growth.

Bloom Time – Celosia blooms from mid-spring to fall. Trim spent flowers to prolong bloom time. Celosia makes a great cut flower as the blooms will last for several days.

Planting Tips – Sow celosia seeds in the garden after your last spring frost date. You can also start seeds indoors, 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Set out purchased plants after the last frost date in spring.

Plant tall cultivars away from strong winds and stake as needed. For celosia plants, set them in the garden after the last frost date.

Does fall celosia grow well in a container?

Celosia grows best in the garden, but it can be container grown. If you plan to grow celosia in a container, keep in mind that taller varieties will require staking. Remember to use well-draining potting soil and feed plants on a regular schedule.

To grow celosia in a container, plant seeds 1/3 to 1/4 inches deep. Place the pot in bright light. Keep the soil evenly moist with regular watering.

What other plants grow well with celosia?

Companion plants that grow well in a garden alongside celosia and create an eye-catching display include:

Angelonia – Often called summer snapdragon, Angelonia is available in purple, pink, and white cultivars. Angelonia features salvia-like flower spires that grow to 2 feet in height.

African Marigold blooms in generously-sized flower mounds – usually 3 inches in width. African marigold is available in bright orange, yellow, and cream and is sold in standard varieties (3 feet tall) and dwarf varieties (1 ft. tall). Like celosia, this blooming annual prefers moist, well-draining soil.

Nasturtium – Nasturtiums are easy to grow from seed and bloom from spring to frost. Nasturtiums come in a wide range of autumn hues, including orange, reddish-orange, salmon, peach, and pale yellow. Plant nasturtiums along a path or a border to serve as a ‘filler’ between taller plantings.

Celosia also pairs well with other annuals, including zinnia, marigold, and amaranth.

Whether planted along a border or in a cutting garden, celosia is a bright bloomer that will add bright autumn color from spring to fall.