Begonias have to have well-drained soil. Tuberous begonias have much larger, slightly hairy leaves and large, bold flowers. Celosia can be divided into those that have fine, feathery flowers called plumes and those that have ruffled, crested flowers called cockscombs. There are varieties that are short and used for bedding and others that are tall and used for cutting. Celosias all need full sun to do their best and prefer rich, well-drained soil.
Celosia blooms are usually in strong bold colors such as red, orange and yellow.
A new, unusual variety called 'Flamingo Feather' offers a more open plant with softer lavender-pink blooms. Celosia flowers are also valued because they hold their color and form for weeks before fading. Coleus is prized for its colored foliage and its ability to grow well in the shade. There are also some new types of coleus that are vegetatively propagated called Sun Coleus. Coleus will grow in almost any soil type and does well in our climate in any situation with bright light.