Amaranth Foxtail (Amaranthus caudatus), also known as Love-Lies-Bleeding, is a striking and versatile plant cherished for its ornamental value and nutritional benefits. With cascading red or green flower tassels, this annual plant is both a visual highlight in gardens and a traditional crop cultivated for its highly nutritious seeds and leaves. Native to South America, Amaranth Foxtail has a long history of cultural and agricultural significance, making it a remarkable addition to any garden or edible landscape.
Amaranth Foxtail has its roots in South America, where it was cultivated by ancient civilizations such as the Incas and Aztecs. It was valued as a staple crop due to its highly nutritious seeds, which were ground into flour and used in various dishes. Over time, the plant spread to other parts of the world, becoming a popular ornamental plant in Europe during the Victorian era. Today, it is cultivated globally for both its aesthetic appeal and its edible properties.
Amaranth Foxtail is an annual herbaceous plant that can reach heights of 1.2-1.8 meters (4-6 feet). It is admired for its dramatic, drooping flower spikes and lush green foliage.
Leaves: Broad, lance-shaped, and light green, offering a vibrant backdrop to the flowers.
Flowers: Long, trailing tassels of densely packed, tiny red, burgundy, or green flowers that bloom in summer and early autumn. These tassels can grow up to 60 cm (24 inches) in length.
Seeds: Small, pale, and round, often harvested as a gluten-free grain alternative.
Growth Habit: Upright, with cascading flower spikes adding a bold statement to gardens.
Sowing: Sow seeds directly outdoors in late spring after the last frost, or start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks earlier. Sow seeds thinly on the soil surface and cover lightly with 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) of soil. Maintain a temperature of 20–25°C (68–77°F) for optimal germination. Thin seedlings to 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) apart.
Soil: Prefers fertile, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5). Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter to support healthy growth and vibrant flowering.
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy, especially during dry periods. Amaranth is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from consistent watering for optimal growth.
Care: Plant in full sun for the best growth and flower production. Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Regularly remove weeds to reduce competition, and deadhead flowers if not saving seeds to encourage further blooming.
Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested as soon as the plant is established, typically 4–6 weeks after sowing. Cut flower spikes when they are fully developed for ornamental use. Seeds are ready for harvest when the flowers dry and small black seeds can be easily shaken free.
Note: Amaranth Foxtail is valued for its versatility, offering edible leaves and seeds, as well as dramatic ornamental appeal. With proper care, this striking plant provides both beauty and utility throughout the growing season.
Amaranth Foxtail is a dual-purpose plant, with its seeds and leaves both being edible and highly nutritious.
The seeds are rich in protein, fiber, and essential amino acids, particularly lysine, and can be cooked as a porridge, popped like popcorn, or ground into flour for baking. They are also a gluten-free alternative to wheat in many recipes.
The young leaves are tender and have a mild, spinach-like flavor. They can be sautéed, steamed, or added to soups, stews, and stir-fries. Their high content of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium, makes them a nutritious addition to meals.
Amaranth Foxtail is highly valued for its dramatic appearance and is often used as a focal point in flower beds or as a cut flower in arrangements. Its long-lasting blooms make it ideal for fresh or dried floral displays, adding texture and color to bouquets. The plant’s striking tassels create a unique visual impact in both formal and informal garden settings.
