Celosia brings saturated, heat-proof color with flame-shaped plumes or sculptural cockscombs. Locally grown at Holub, it thrives in Iowa sun for long-lasting beds, borders, and bouquets.
why choose celosia for your Iowa garden?
Celosia (Celosia argentea) lights up Iowa gardens with intense reds, oranges, yellows, and magentas. Upright plume forms add vertical pop; crested “cockscomb” types deliver bold, coral-like texture for containers and cut arrangements. Selected for vigor and heat tolerance, our plants keep color coming from late spring into fall across Story, Boone, Polk, and Marshall counties.
When should I plant Celosia in Iowa?
Plant late May–early June once soil is fully warm and nights are reliably mild. Full sun and warm weather bring out the richest color and strongest stems. Check in-store for variety availability and seasonal hours before you plant.
How do I grow Celosia successfully in central Iowa?
- Light: Full sun (6+ hours)
- Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile
- Water: Moderate; allow top inch to dry between waterings
- Feed: Monthly balanced fertilizer for strong stems and continuous bloom
- Cutting tip: Harvest for bouquets to encourage new flushes into fall
What flowers pair well with Celosia?
Create heat-loving “sun squads” with these annual and perennial partners:
- Zinnia & Marigold: Color powerhouses with similar sun/heat needs.
- Salvia & Gomphrena: Spires + globe blooms for shape variety and pollinators.
- Angelonia & Verbena: Continuous summer bloom; superb in hot planters.
- Dwarf Ornamental Grasses: Airy movement that frames bold heads.
- Dusty Miller: Silver leaves that make hot hues glow in bright light.
Why should you buy Celosia at Holub Greenhouses?
Holub Greenhouses in Ames is a locally rooted, family-operated greenhouse and garden supply center with annual and perennial plants raised for Iowa weather—not shipped from distant climates. Shop in person at our Ames location for hands-on help, plant combos, and weekly specials that make summer plantings shine.