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).
Genus name comes from the Latin name for a kind of amaranth, possibly this one, usually grown as an “everlasting”.
Specific epithet means round or spherical.”Electric Pink” is a hybrid Gomphrena with large flowers. Gomphrena is an old-fashioned bedding plant that tolerates poor soils, heat and drought, and was once a fovorite in British gardens. It is a true “everlasting” and great for dried arrangements. It attracts butterflies.
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.
Full Sun
hardy to 32 degrees
Height of 8 to 16 inchesWidth of 8 to 16 inches
flowers spring to Autumn