Amaranth 'Dark Red' (Amaranthus caudatus), offered by the seed company WH Perron
'Dark Red' amaranth is a spectacular and expressive annual variety, prized for its long, drooping clusters of intensely dark red flowers . As the season progresses, these flowers develop into decorative seed heads , extending the visual interest well beyond the flowering period. Its slender habit and striking presence make it a remarkable plant in borders, while also offering excellent durability for cut and dried flowers .
Easy to incorporate and a pleasure to grow, 'Dark Red' brings a dramatic and elegant touch to summer gardens. Original, generous, and decorative , it is ideal for creating movement, texture, and a rich color contrast from early summer until the first cooler weather.
Latin name: Amaranthus caudatus
Maturity: Annual
Maturity after sowing: 10 to 12 weeks
Plant height: Approximately 90 cm
Spread: 60 to 90 cm
Flower color: Dark red (evolving into various shades)
Flowering: June to September
Quantity per packet: Approximately 175 seeds
Formulation: Naked
Uses: Cut flowers, dried flowers, flower beds
Farming method
Sow indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost , in a light, well-draining seed-starting mix, maintaining a temperature of around 21 to 24°C (70 to 75°F) . Germination usually occurs in 8 to 10 days . Transplant outdoors after the last frost, to a sunny location, to encourage vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
Growing tips
Prepare the soil to a depth of about 30 cm by incorporating compost or organic matter to ensure good structure. Handle young plants carefully when transplanting to encourage rapid establishment. Outdoors, amaranth prefers well-drained, rather dry soil and regular watering initially, then moderate watering once established.
Flowering and uses
The flowers appear approximately three months after sowing and develop in long, elegant cascades, perfect for cutting. Long-lasting, textured, and highly decorative , they also dry beautifully. Bold and easy to grow , 'Dark Red' amaranth is a distinctive choice for enriching gardens and floral arrangements with character and depth.
