Gomphrena plants are half hardy annuals that reach between 25 and 45 cm (10 to 18 inches) in height.
Gomphrena species bloom from summer through to early autumn and carry globe shaped flowers of violet, red or white.
An example of a commonly grown garden member of this genus is the Globe Amaranth.
em>Gomphrena globosa – Globe Amaranth by Carl E Lewis.
Gomphrena globosa - Globe Amaranth by GreenGardenVienna.
Common Names: Globe Amaranth, Strawberry Fields Globe Amaranth, Bachelor Button.
Family: Amaranthaceae.
Life Cycle: Half hardy annual.
Height: 10 to 24 inches (25 to 60 cm).
Native: South and Central America.
If growing globe amaranth from seed outdoors, then sow the seeds following the last frost of spring. Lightly cover the globe amaranth seeds once sown.
Ideally Amaranths should be spaced at about 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 inches) apart. Locate in a sunny part of the garden. For best results, grow Gomphrena species in a soil of pH 6 to 7.
If starting off Globe amaranth indoors, then first soak the seeds for a day. Next, sow into pots.
Germinate Gomphrena seeds at a temperature of 21 to 25 degrees centigrade (70 to 77°F), in the dark.
Transplant the globe amaranth seedlings into the garden following the last frost.
It is easy to look after Globe amaranth plants. When they are young, pinch back the tips to encourage branching; this will result in bushier Gomphrena plants.
Once flowers break from their buds give them a light feed.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Gomphrena plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ Amaranthaceae growing guides: How to grow Amaranthus retroflexus, Leucojum, and Kochia plants.