Add interest to summer bedding
Leaves also make nice salad greens
Decorative tassels in red and green shades
Description
Delightful long, decorative tassels in red and green shades, gently swish side to side in a summer breeze. Ideal for adding height and interest to summer bedding displays. Height: 90-120cm (36-48in)
Culinary note: The leaves are very nutritious, similar to spinach and the seeds can be treated as grain, amaranthus flour is common. The leaves also make nice salad greens. For more details about edible flowers
Sowing
Sow March to May. Sow thinly, 3mm (1/8in) deep in drills 30cm (12in) apart in well-cultivated soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Water ground regularly, especially in dry periods. Can also be sown in pots or trays of moist seed compost covered with a very fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Keep at between 20-25C (68-86F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination will usually 7-14 days. When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays. Plant out after all risk of frost.
When large enough to handle, thin out seedlings to 30cm (12in) apart.
More Info
The cut flowers last well in water and can also be dried. If this is done carefully the flowers keep their colour for some time. For pot plants provide a humid atmosphere.
