The botanical name of Globe amaranth
plant is Gomphrena globosa and the plant is native to Central America but they do
well in all the USDA plant hardiness zones. The Globe amaranth plant is a
tender annual, but it tends to reseed itself for years of consistent blooms in
the same area. Actually, growing globe amaranth plants are easy and its round
blooms will attract butterflies and some important garden pollinators.
Information about Globe Amaranth Plant
The Globe amaranth plants also known
as Gomphrena globosa can grow from six to twelve inches high. The plant
actually has fine white hairs covering young growth, which matures to thick
green stems. The plant leaves are oval and they arranged alternately along the
stem. The blooms of globe amaranth plants actually start in June and it may
last until October. The globe amaranth plant flower heads are clusters of
florets that resemble large clover flowers. The flowers range in color from yellow,
pink, white, and lavender. One interesting thing about this plant is that the
flowers dry well. The globe amaranth plants make excellent additions to
everlasting bouquets to brighten the interior of your home. Growing the globe
amaranth plants from seed is common in most zones, although the plants are also
readily available in most nurseries and garden centers.
Globe Amaranth Propagation
Actually growing the globe amaranth plant
is not difficult at all. You can easily start the seeds indoors 6 weeks before
the last frost. The globe amaranth seeds will germinate faster if you soak them
in water prior to planting. If you wish to sow the globe amaranth seeds
outdoors, make sure you wait until the soil has warmed and there is no chance
of frost. Also choose a good site in full sun with good drainage. The globe
amaranth plants will grow in almost any soil type except alkaline. The globe
amaranth plants also perform best in garden soil, but you can also put them in
containers. Space the plants twelve to eighteen inches apart and keep them
moderately moist. The globe amaranth plants can tolerate periods of dryness, however
they perform best with even moisture.
How to Care for Globe Amaranth
Flowers
The globe amaranth plants are not
susceptible to many disease or pest problems. Nevertheless, it may get powdery
mildew if watered overhead. Watering the plant at the base or in the morning
gives the leaves a chance to dry off and prevents this problem. The globe
amaranth plants are old-fashioned additions to dried flower arrangements. The globe
amaranth flowers are dried by hanging. You can easily harvest the flowers when
they first open with a good length of stiff stem. You can tie the stems
together and then hang the bundle in a cool, dry location. Once they are dried,
they can be used with the stems or remove the flowers and add to potpourri. The
globe amaranth flowers also work nicely in fresh flower arrangements. The general
care of the globe amaranth flowers is the same for any cut floral. Make clean,
slightly angled cuts at the ends of the stems and remove any leaves that might
sit in the water. Change the water every couple of days and cut off a tiny bit
of stem to open up the capillaries again. The amaranth flowers can last up to a
week with good care. Expect the globe amaranth plants to die back when cold
temperatures appear, but don’t get distressed! In nearly all USDA zones, the globe
amaranth seeds that set after the flower is spent will germinate in soils after
winter.
Post a Comment