Globe Amaranth (Gomphrena globosa)

Globe Amaranth

Gomphrena globosa

Its round, papery blooms hold color like dried confetti. Drought-tolerant annual flowering plant; common name: Globe Amaranth.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; thrives in hot, dry conditions; tolerates light shade in extreme heat
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Watering Allow top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings; drought-tolerant once established; avoid overwatering
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperatures; avoid frost, as temperatures below 10°C may cause leaf damage or plant death
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Simple, opposite, lanceolate to oval, green to gray-green, slightly hairy
  • Flower: Dense, round, papery bracts in pink, purple, white, or orange; true flowers tiny inside
  • Stem: Erect, branching, slightly hairy, green to reddish-brown
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy; reduce watering only if plants show wilting

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can reduce flowering and promote leggy growth

Coffee grounds compost tea:Use fully composted coffee grounds; dilute 1:25 for root drench to avoid nutrient burn and odor
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season
  • Pinch back young seedlings to promote bushier, more compact growth
  • Trim leggy stems mid-season to maintain a neat, rounded habit
  • Remove yellowing leaves to improve air circulation and reduce pest risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects on cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes immortality and enduring love due to its long-lasting, color-retentive blooms

Usage: Fresh or dried cut flowers, garden border plant, pollinator attractant for bees and butterflies