Dracula Celosia

Dracula is an upright crested celosia with burgundy-red flowers and green foliage that can become darker and more purple outdoors. PanAmerican Seed lists it at 8–16 inches tall and 8–12 inches wide; Proven Winners reports summer-through-fall bloom and USDA zones 10a–11b. [See PanAmerican Seed’s grower guide](https://www.panamseed.com/utility/CultureSheetPDF.aspx?pagename=culture.aspx&txtphid=014500001020443&type=Ann) and [the Proven Winners profile](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/celosia/dracula-cockscomb-celosia-cristata). ## Siting and growth Grow Dracula in full sun and well-drained soil, and protect it from frost. The breeder describes one large crest atop each plant and notes that flower and foliage colors darken outdoors. The Royal Horticultural Society describes oval green and burgundy-red foliage and a tender annual habit. Its botanical name status is unresolved, so the catalog’s selection name remains as supplied. [Read the RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/528854/celosia-argentea-var-cristata-cristata-group-dracula/details). ## Seasonal display Use the broad crested heads in a container or border, or cut them for a striking arrangement. PanAmerican Seed lists spring through late summer flowering; Proven Winners gives summer through fall, so timing can vary with day length and growing conditions. ## Maintenance Keep the soil moist but well drained and protect the plant from frost. Celosia may reseed readily; North Carolina Extension recommends deadheading when reseeding is unwanted. [See its celosia care guidance](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/celosia/).