Celosia brings velvet texture and upright form to beds and borders through the heat—those plush flower heads come in jewel tones and hold their color without fading. Plant it in full sun and average soil, and it'll flower from planting until frost without complaint.

Unlike some annuals that peter out by midsummer, celosia keeps going strong in our heat. Deadhead spent flowers if you want a tidier look, or let them stand for a dried arrangement later.