Some varieties of celosia grow only 10 inches tall while some reach three feet. The plants like plenty of sun and a well drained soil. Celosia grows with a moderate amount of watering. Fertilizing every six weeks with liquid fertilizer or manure tea is helpful.
  The main colors are red and yellow but orange and pink are available. Some varieties have red or yellow pigmented leaves that add to the color display.

  In addition to its bright colors, celosias adds interesting textures and structures to the flower bed. The taller varieties give a vertical accent to the middle or rear of the bed. The plumosa or feathery type provide a contrast to more common flower types such as a petunia's trumpet shape or the daisy shape of a zinnia. The crested cockscomb is an interesting structure in itself.

  The plants can be started from seeds, but six packs are commonly available in the spring. Butterflies are attracted to celosia. The flower heads are beautiful but lose their attractiveness as they go to seed. It is best to remove the stem at that time.

  Celosias are sometimes infected with aphids. Grasshoppers and caterpillars sometimes eat them.

 Celosia makes striking bouquets of cut flowers and can be dried for floral arrangements. To dry, cut the stems near the ground when they are in full bloom, remove the leaves, and hang upside down in a dark, dry spot in the garage or shed. Hang them far enough apart so the stems or flower heads do not touch and place an old sheet below them to catch any seeds that might fall from the blooms.