Gomphrena globosa is commonly known as globe amaranth. It is an annual plant that grows up to 24 inches in height. The true species has magenta bracts, and cultivars have colors such as purple, red, white, pink, and lilac.
Its native range is in Brazil, Panama and Guatemala.
In Hawaii, it is commonly used in long-lasting leis since it retains its shape and color after drying.
This flower is used to make a garland for Brother's Day in Nepal. The garland is put around the brother's neck by their sister for Protection.
Names in other languages
- Hawaiian Pidgin - bozu
- Hawaiian - lehua pepa, lehua moa loa
- Tamil - Vadamalli
- Javanese - Bunga Kancing
- Nepali - Supadi Phool
'Buddy' is smaller, to 9 in (23 cm) high, and has bright intensely purple flowerheads. 'Cissy' also is smaller and has white flowerheads. Gomphrena 'Strawberry Fields' is a hybrid with bright red flowerheads to 2 in (5 cm) long.
Location
Globe amaranth is native to Panama and Guatemala in Central America.
Culture
Pinch back the tips of young plants to encourage branching. Globe amaranth benefits from mulching in hot, dry weather.
Light: Full sun.
Moisture: Globe amaranth will survive drought, but performs best with regular watering, especially during hot weather.
Hardiness: Globe amaranth is an annual grown as a summer bedding plant. It cannot tolerate frost, but it is quite tolerant of summer heat.
Propagation: Plant globe amaranth seeds in spring after all danger of frost has past. Many gardeners set out 6-8 week old seedlings for a head start on the season. Seeds should be soaked in water for a day or two before planting and will take about a week or two to germinate at 70ºF (21 ºC).
Usage
Gophrenas are used in annual beds and borders. In masses, the round flowerheads produce an interesting texture, and their bright colors last late into the season. Their low stature makes them well suited for edging around taller plantings. Globe amaranth is often grown in containers on the porch or deck. The conelike flowerheads are beautiful in dried arrangements and will hold their shape and color indefinitely. To grow gomphrena for cut flowers or dried arrangements, plant closely together to force longer stems. Cut the stems just as the heads are beginning to open and hang upside down in a warm, dark place to dry.
Features
Gomphrena is an old fashioned bedding plant that just isn't used enough these days. It tolerates poor soils, heat and drought, and was once a favorite in British gardens. It is a true "everlasting" and one of the best flowers you can grow for dried arrangements. As an added bonus, it attracts butterflies.
