Joseph's Coat (Amaranthus tricolor)

Joseph's Coat

Amaranthus tricolor

Vibrant foliage blazes like a watercolor palette. Fast-growing annual herb; common name: Joseph's Coat.

Full sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full to partial sun; bright light enhances foliage coloration; tolerates light shade
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Watering Water when top 2 cm of soil dries; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperatures; cannot tolerate frost; ideal range 20–30°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Variegated leaves in red, yellow, green; ovate to lanceolate, soft texture
  • Flower: Small, greenish-white clustered spikes; inconspicuous
  • Stem: Succulent, green to reddish, branching upright habit
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist; water deeply 2–3 times weekly

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Stop fertilizing in late autumn as growth slows

Banana peel tea:Soak 1 peeled banana in 1 liter water for 24 hours; dilute 1:2 before drenching roots; discard peel after steeping to avoid odor
Pruning
  • Pinch back young stems to encourage bushy, compact growth
  • Remove faded flower spikes to redirect energy to foliage development
  • Trim leggy growth in mid-summer to maintain neat form
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects when ingested or handled

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes vibrancy and diversity in ornamental gardening

Usage: Ornamental foliage; young leaves edible as a nutrient-rich leafy green