Common Name Type Family Native Range Zone Height Spread Bloom Time Bloom Description Sun Water Maintenance Suggested Use Flower Attracts Tolerate |
globe amaranth Annual Amaranthaceae Panama, Guatemala 2 to 11 1.00 to 2.00 feet 0.50 to 1.00 feet June to frost red magenta bracts Full sun Medium Low Annual Showy, Good Dried Butterflies Drought, Clay Soil, Dry Soil |
Annual. Easily grown in average, well-drained soils in full sun. Although mature plants exhibit good drought resistance, plants grow best with regular moisture throughout the growing season. Extremely good heat tolerance. Sow seed directly in the garden after last frost date. Use ample amounts of seed since germination rate can be quite low. For earlier bloom, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Most nurseries carry plants in cell/six packs. Set seedlings or purchased plants out after last frost date. Pinch young plants to promote bushiness. Noteworthy Characteristics Globe amaranth is a compact annual that typically grows 12-24” tall on upright branching stems. The true flowers are insignificant, tiny, white to yellow trumpets that are only visible close up. It is the bright magenta bracts arranged in globose, papery-textured, clover-like flowerheads that provide the real show in a long summer to frost bloom. Cultivars expand the range of flowerhead colors to include red, pink, purple, lilac, violet and white. Long lasting fresh cut flower. Excellent dried flower (an everlasting) that retains color well. Narrow oblong to elliptic green leaves (to 4” long). Problems No serious insect or disease problems. Taller plants may need staking. Mildew may attack drought-stressed plants. Garden Uses Borders, rock gardens, cutting gardens, annual beds or containers. Also useful as an edger. |
Information on this page is generally from Missouri Botanical Gardens, Dave’s Garden, All things Plants or Texas Superstar |
This page last updated or reviewed 231002