Dramatic draping tassels and upright plumes
| Type | Annual |
|---|---|
| Zones | All zones |
| Sun | Full sun |
| Height | 3–5 feet |
| Bloom Season | Late summer to frost |
| Vase Life | 10+ days (fresh) |
| Start | Start seeds 4 weeks before last frost or direct sow |
Amaranth produces some of the most dramatic forms in the cutting garden: long, draping rope-like tassels (A. caudatus, "love lies bleeding"), upright plumes (A. cruentus), and globe-shaped heads (Gomphrena, often grouped with amaranth). All are heat-lovers that thrive in summer and dry beautifully.
'Love Lies Bleeding' (A. caudatus) produces cascading red or green tassels up to 18 inches long—incredibly dramatic. 'Hot Biscuits' and 'Oeschberg' are upright plume types in bronze and deep red. Globe amaranth (Gomphrena) varieties like 'QIS' produce ball-shaped blooms on long stems in magenta, purple, and white.
Start seeds 4 weeks before last frost or direct sow in warm soil. Space 12–18 inches apart. Full sun, moderate soil. Amaranth handles heat and some drought. Avoid heavy fertilizing—too much nitrogen gives leafy plants and fewer blooms. The draping types benefit from staking as the heavy tassels develop.
For fresh use, cut when the tassels or plumes are well-developed. For drying, wait until fully colored and hang upside down. Globe amaranth can be dried at any stage. Harvest in morning. Fresh vase life is 10+ days.
The draping forms are show-stoppers, cascading over the edge of tall vases. Pair with dahlias, celosia, and grasses for bold fall arrangements. Globe amaranth adds texture alongside zinnias and strawflowers.