(Amaranthus cruentus)You will be delighted by this gorgeous and graceful amaranth! Its warm, golden copper plumes stand upright and approximately 4’ tall. Like all amaranths, it is highly productive with branching stems allowing for multiple cuttings from one plant. Lasts very well (minus foliage) in a vase and almost forever in the garden! Birds love it as the Fall approaches and the seed fills out. Prized as well for its edible seed and young leaves, amaranth has been grown for over 8,000 years and was a staple food of the Aztecs. Very high in many nutrients. Buff colored seed.
80 days. UO

Packet: 150 seeds

[split]

Growing Info

SOWING:

Sow indoors 4-6 weeks before your last frost.

Transplant out after last frost.

May be direct seeded after last frost.

Note: Slow growing until warmer weather. Blink and they are big!

PLANTING DEPTH:

1/8"

SPACING:

12-15" between plants in rows 18" apart.

EMERGENCE:

7-10 days @ soil temp 70-80F

LIGHT:

Full sun

FERTILITY:

Low to average. Well-drained soil is preferred although they are rather forgiving.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

While not absolutely necessary, you may provide staking or netting to keep them upright and tidy.

Remember, amaranth loves warm weather and will grow very slowly until it warms up. You may use row cover to keep them warm after transplanting.

Edible seeds and young leaves for you and other critters. To harvest seeds, wait until flowers are firm and dry to the touch. Seed will rub out easily in your hands and plumes/stalks may be cut and tarped or hung to dry further. Protect from the birds if you're not into sharing!

Fresh or dried flowers.

Harvest flowers when 2/3-3/4 of them are open. Do remove most leaves as they wilt quickly and removal brings focus to the flowers. Expect a vase life of 7-10 days.

Amaranth, 'Hot Biscuits'