Growing: Amaranth

Botanical Name:

Gomphrena globosa

Life Cycle:

annual

Planting Time:

spring or summer; start indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost

Height:

12" to 24"

Exposure:

full sun; thrives in hot, dry locations

Soil:

rich, well-drained soil, neutral pH

Hardiness:

n/a

Bloom Time:

all summer

Flower:

red, orange, white, pink and purple

Foliage:

leaves are hairy and wooly-white when young, turning green as they age.

Propagation:

seeds

Suggested Use:

beds, borders, edging, cut flowers and dried arrangements

Growing Hints:

To grow for cut flowers or dried arrangements plant them closely together to force longer stems. Cut when flowers are just starting to open and hang upside down to dry.

Interesting Facts:

Globe Amaranth is native to Panama and Guatemala in Central America. It was once a favorite of English gardens and also attracts butterflies.