Annual
Celosia
Celosia
Varieties We Carry
Dragon's BreathCelosia argenteaFlamma GoldenCelosia argenteaFlamma OrangeCelosia argentea
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$6.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 25.
LightFull Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size1-3 feet × 1-2 feet (varies by cultivar)
About Celosia
Celosia is a heat-loving tropical annual thriving in NE Florida's summers, producing vivid plumed, crested, or wheat-spike flowers in red, orange, yellow, pink, and purple. An approved Florida-Friendly Landscaping plant, it attracts beneficial insects and pollinators and performs exceptionally well in full sun beds, borders, and containers. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- Yellow, Orange, Red, Pink, Purple, Multi
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Clay, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
J
F
M
A
M
JNow
J
A
S
O
N
D
This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Foliage may begin to change or drop.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Light
Celosia thrives in full sun in NE Florida — it is one of the best heat-tolerant annuals for Florida summers. Partial shade reduces bloom production and encourages disease in humid conditions.
Water
Water moderately; established plants tolerate some drought but perform best with consistent moisture. NE Florida's summer rains typically provide adequate water — ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil & Fertilizer
Plant in fertile, well-drained soil with high organic matter for best vigor. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer at planting; pinch first flower buds on plumed types to encourage branching and prolonged blooming through the warm season.
Similar needs
Crinum Lily
Shares 6 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, salt tolerance, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $14.95Same conditions
Daylily
Shares 6 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, salt tolerance, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $6.95Same conditions
Frogfruit
Shares 6 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, salt tolerance, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $9.95Same conditions
Ligustrum
Shares 6 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, salt tolerance, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $14.95Same conditions
Mexican Petunia
Shares 6 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, salt tolerance, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $6.95Same conditions
Liriope
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, salt tolerance, and zone 9a hardiness.
From $6.95Same conditions
You may also like
Common questions
Is Celosia a good plant for St. Augustine?
Celosia is a annual for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with medium salt tolerance, reaching 1-3 feet × 1-2 feet (varies by cultivar).
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.