Celosia spicata

The plant in question is Celosia spicata. This is indeed a delightful plant. It produces cylindrical flower spikes that resemble wheat – hence the common name wheat celosia.

Aside from C. spicata there are 2 common groups of celosia: C. cristata, also known as cockscomb, and C. plumosa. C. cristata celosia produces a crested bloom and C. plumosa celosia blooms are fluffy and plume-like.

Celosia is an annual that is easily grown from seed, which makes it a great seed saving and pass along plant.

Celosia spicata – P. Allen Smith (pallensmith.com)