Guide to growing Globe Amaranth (Gomphrena)
Gomphrena are half hardy annuals that reach between 25 and 45 cm in height.
Gomphrena species bloom from summer through to early autumn and carry globe shaped flowers of violet, red or white.
An example of the commonly grown garden Gomphrena Globe Amaranth.
Gomphrena globosa – Globe Amaranth by Carl E Lewis; creative commons.
Gomphrena globosa - Strawberry Fields Globe Amaranth by GreenGardenVienna; creative commons.
Quick Gomphrena Growing Guide and Facts
Common Names: Globe Amaranth, Strawberry Fields Globe Amaranth, Bachelor Button.
Life Cycle: Half hardy annual.
Height: 10 to 24 inches (25 to 60 cm).
Native: South and Central America.
Growing Region: Zones 3 to 10.
Flowers: Summer to autumn.
Flower Details: Magenta, red, purple, white, lilac, pink. Ball shaped. Flowers look similar to strawberry fruits.
Foliage: Oblanceolate. Green, Blueish-green.
Sow Outside: Cover seed. Following last frost. Spacing 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm).
Sow Inside: Soak seeds for one day. Germination time: one to two weeks in the dark. Temperature 70°F (21°C). Seven or eight weeks in advance. Transplant outdoors following the last frost.
Requirements: Full sunlight. Good drainage. Soil pH 6 to 7. Average soil. Drought tolerant. Provide a light feed at the first sign of blooming. Pinch tips.
How to grow Globe Amaranth
If growing globe amaranth from seed outdoors then sow the seeds following the last frost of spring; lightly cover the globe amaranth seeds once sown. Ideally amaranths should be spaced at about 20 to 30 cm apart and grown in a sunny part of the garden, For best result grow Gomphrena species in a soil of pH 6 to 7.
If starting off Globe amaranth indoors then first soak the seeds for a day, then sow into pots. Germinate Gomphrena at a temperature of 21 to 25 degrees centigrade in the dark. Transplant the globe amaranth seedlings into the garden following the last frost.
Caring for Globe Amaranth
It is easy to look after globe amaranth and other Gomphrena species. When they are young pinch back the tips to encourage branching; this will result in bushier Gomphrena plants. Once flowers break from their buds give a light feed.