Amaranthus caudatus

Sowing and care guidance

Amaranthus caudatus seeds thrive in full sun and well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Start indoors before the last frost or direct sow once all danger of frost has passed; in long, warm seasons a late-summer sowing can deliver an autumn display. Sow thinly, cover lightly, and keep the surface just moist until germination. Harden off seedlings and transplant with generous spacing to encourage branching and airflow, and avoid excess nitrogen to prevent lanky growth. Plants are tall with long, trailing tassels, so provide support in exposed sites. Water regularly in dry spells, allowing the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, and remove spent tassels if self-seeding is a concern.

• Start indoors before last frost; or direct sow after all danger of frost. In long, warm seasons, late-summer sowing can give an autumn display.
• Grow in full sun and well-drained, moderately fertile soil; avoid excess nitrogen for sturdier growth.
• Space generously for branching and airflow; stake if exposed; follow packet spacing guidance.
• Water steadily in dry weather and mulch to retain moisture; thin seedlings to the strongest plants.
• Edible: young leaves and mature seeds are used in cooking; harvest from well-identified plants and prepare appropriately.
• Ornamental: valued for tall stature and long trailing tassels for borders, cutting, and drying.

When should I sow love-lies-bleeding (Amaranthus caudatus) seeds?

Sow indoors a few weeks before the last frost, then plant out after all danger of frost when nights are reliably mild, or direct sow outdoors once the soil is warm and workable. In long, warm seasons, a later sowing in late summer can give a vivid autumn display. Indoors, use small cells or modules to minimise root disturbance; harden off gradually before transplanting. Outdoors, wait for steady warmth—cold snaps will check growth. In cooler, shorter seasons, starting under cover helps ensure earlier flowering and fuller tassels.

What are germination tips for love-lies-bleeding seeds?

Amaranthus seeds are tiny and germinate best with light, so press them onto the surface of moist seed mix or cover very lightly (1–2 mm). Aim for warm conditions of about 18–24°C (65–75°F). Keep evenly moist but not waterlogged; a clear cover can help maintain humidity until sprouts appear. Expect germination in roughly 5–14 days. Once seedlings have 2–3 true leaves, thin or pot on to avoid crowding and stretch. Grow on in bright light to prevent legginess, and handle gently to avoid disturbing the fine roots.

What are the best growing conditions and soil for Amaranthus caudatus?

Provide full sun and warmth for the strongest plants and longest tassels. A well-drained, moderately fertile soil is ideal; overly rich or high-nitrogen soils push lush foliage at the expense of flowers. Work in light organic matter to improve structure, but avoid heavy feeding. Ensure drainage, especially in wetter climates or compacted beds. Water regularly during establishment and dry spells, allowing the surface to dry slightly between waterings. Shelter from persistent strong winds if possible, as tall stems and long tassels can act like sails.

How tall does love-lies-bleeding grow, and how should I space the plants?

Plants typically reach 90–150 cm (3–5 ft) and can grow taller in long, warm seasons, producing dramatic trailing tassels. Space generously for airflow and branching: 30–45 cm (12–18 in) for massed effects, or 45–60 cm (18–24 in) for large specimen plants. Wider spacing reduces mildew risk and helps tassels hang cleanly. In exposed or windy sites, stake early to support heavy flowering stems. Pinching once when young encourages branching (more tassels on slightly shorter plants). Deadhead if you wish to reduce self-seeding.

Can amaranthus be grown in containers?

Yes—choose a large, sturdy container with excellent drainage, ideally 30–40 cm (12–16 in) wide and 30 cm (12 in) deep per plant. Use a free-draining, moderately fertile potting mix; avoid high-nitrogen formulations. Place in full sun and water consistently, as containers dry out faster, especially in heat. Add a light, balanced, slow-release feed if needed, but avoid overfeeding. Provide discreet stakes or a support ring before tassels become heavy to keep stems upright and prevent wind rock on balconies or exposed patios.

How do I harvest and dry Amaranthus caudatus tassels for cut flowers?

For fresh cuts, harvest when tassels are well coloured and elongated, ideally in the cool part of the day. Remove lower leaves, recut stems, and place in clean, deep water; support heavy tassels to prevent kinks. For drying, cut just before seeds begin to shed, strip foliage, and hang stems upside down in a warm, dry, airy, shaded place. Allow good spacing for airflow; drying typically takes 1–2 weeks. Expect some seed drop—lay paper beneath. Once fully dry, handle gently to preserve the tassels’ form.

This sitewide growing guidance is general and reflects typical conditions. Outcomes may vary with microclimate, soil structure, drainage, exposure, and seasonal timing (for example, sowing after last frost or when soil is workable). For precise instructions on sowing depth, spacing, timing, and any pre-treatment, product pages carry the specific directions supplied for each item. Practices may need adjustment to local temperature range, day length, and moisture availability.

Cultivating Amaranthus caudatus

Amaranthus caudatus seeds yield dramatic, cascading tassels that add vertical interest to borders and arrangements. Start indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost in warm, bright conditions, or direct sow after the last frost when soil is consistently warm and workable. Optimal germination occurs at 20–25°C; press seeds lightly into the surface as they need light to germinate, and keep evenly moist until sprouted in 7–14 days. Transplant or thin to 30–45 cm spacing in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Water regularly during establishment; once rooted, plants tolerate short dry spells but bloom best with steady moisture. Tall stems may benefit from staking in exposed, windy sites. For continuous colour, succession sow at 2–3 week intervals through early summer (Northern Hemisphere) / late spring to mid-summer (Southern Hemisphere). Cut tassels for fresh or dried displays when richly coloured, or allow panicles to mature and dry on the plant for seed collection. In mild climates, autumn sowing can succeed.