Question:

I like the look of celosia but struggle with its placement in my designs. I would love to use it, but it always seems to call attention to itself rather than blending into the overall look. Would it be possible to see some of the designs the BB Expert Panel members have created using celosia?

Above: Plumed Celosia (left) and Crested (cockscomb/brain) Celosia (right) grown by BB Expert Panel member Love ‘n Fresh Flowers

Botanical Brouhaha Expert Panel 92 Answers:

Honestly I really seldom use celosia in my designs… This is not a flower that is often requested by couples as its colors and shape are very unusual and very prominent. I used celosia once for a wedding where the style was very unusual and fitted the couple’s own universe. You’ll understand why its use was straightforward when you see the pictures below. That wedding was featured in the Rock ‘n Roll Bride…

Floresie | Sebastien Boudot Photography

Laetitia Mayor (Floresie)

Cockscomb celosia [sometimes referred to as brain celosia] is available in the most beautiful colors- vibrant reds, pinks, yellows, orange, and coral. The blooms can be enormous, and a little intimidating! I  tuck them deep into bouquets and arrangements, to add a base layer of color and support for the other flowers. Focal and supporting flowers are layered over the celosia, so that just the color and texture peeks through.

Susan McLeary (Passionflower)

For what it is worth, I struggle with celosia too. If you are using spike/plume celosia, you can pinch out the top of the pointy bit to make it less distracting to the design. Additionally, finding just the right blend of colors can really help soften the transition visually between celosia and the rest of the flowers in a design.

Jennie Love (Love ‘n Fresh Flowers)

I tend to enjoy working with the skinnier stems to the fat ones. I find celosia difficult to work with also. Having said that,  I do tear them up to make buttonhole ingredients & in larger designs they seem to be forgiven for looking like the only “odd” flower in the bunch, because of their beautiful velvety texture.

Jo Flowers | Taylor & Porter

Jo Rodwell (Jo Flowers)

I like to use Celosia in my late Summer and early Fall events because so many of the local flower farmers grow them in beautiful colors. I tend to use it for clients who like texture and interesting accents as it’s an acquired taste. I usually tuck Brain Celosia varieties a little deeper into the designs since their shape is heavier and it’s a great way to add bold color. The Plume varieties add a nice wispy feel and I also like it to add height and interest to small bud vase arrangements.

Blush Floral Design | Corey Torpie Photography

Blush Floral Design | Joseph’s Photography

Beth Zemetis (Blush Floral Design)

Holly Heider Chapple Flowers | Abby Jiu Photography

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