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Globe Amaranth - Audray's Purple Red (Gomphrena globosa) Gomphrena Flowers Globe Amaranth Flower

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Globe Amaranth - Audray Purple Red (Gomphrena globosa) Gomphrena Flowers Globe Amaranth Flower

Annual

Height 12 - 24 in

Gomphrena globosa, commonly known as globe amaranth, is an edible plant from the family Amaranthaceae. The round vibrantly 

purple red flower inflorescences are a visually dominant feature and cultivars have been propagated to exhibit shades of magenta, purple, red, orange, white, pink, and lilac. Within the  1 to  1 1/2 in. flowerheads, the true flowers are small and inconspicuous. Plants have tall branching stems.

Gomphrena globosa is native to Central America including regions Panama, and Guatemala, and is now grown globally. As a tropical annual plant, G. globosa blooms continuously throughout summer and early fall. It is very heat tolerant and fairly drought resistant, but grows best in full sun and regular moisture.

At maturity, the flowerheads are approximately 4 cm long. Gomphrena globosa is an outcrossing species that is pollinated by butterflies, bees, and other insects. Floral volatiles likely play a significant role in the reproductive success of the plant by promoting the attraction of pollinators. Excellent choice for cutting flower gardens, borders and cottage gardens. 

Note: This is a plant with an upright growth habit that tends to get leggy unless you pinch some flowers early in the growing season. Gomphrena is genetically wired to “breathe” differently than many other plants, so it can conserve energy, retain moisture, and survive in soils lacking in nitrogen that are typical of tropical climes. The flowers, leaves, roots, and seeds of gomphrena contain immune-boosting phytochemicals and antioxidant betacyanins, and have long been used by herbalists to address an array of ailments ranging from GI to respiratory problems.

    • Full sun
    • Average well draining soil
    • Note: Many gardeners recommend soaking Globe Amaranth seeds 24 - 48 hours before sowing as the water helps to prime the seed for germination
    • Start seeds indoors, 6-8 weeks before last frost.  Seedlings will emerge on average after 7 to 14 days; use a heat mat to speed germination.
    • Note: slow grower, if you need to see faster progression of growth, use grow lights until seedlings have at least 2 sets of true leaves.
    • Harden off gradually and 
  • transplant the seedlings outdoors when they are several inches tall, and all risk of frost has passed.
  • OR direct outdoor seeding is not recommended unless you’re in growing zone 9 or above.
  • Spacing: 12 to 18 in
  • Gomphrena does not need to be pinched, as the plant will branch naturally.
  • Low maintenance, heat resistant and drought tolerant.
    Seed Count: 20