Celosia Types: Spicata, Cristata, and Plumosa Explained

Celosia (Celosia argentea) has three distinct flower forms:

• Spicata (wheat celosia): Narrow, spiky flower heads.
• Cristata (cockscomb): Broad, crested, brain-like heads.
• Plumosa (feather celosia): Feathery, plume-like heads.

All are annuals; collect seed in fall for spring planting. Colors range from red, pink, orange, yellow, to purple.

Celosia argentea var. spicata—spiky form.

Celosia argentea var. cristata—cockscomb form.

Celosia argentea var. plumosa—feather form.