Gomphrena, also known as globe amaranth, is an edible, short-lived perennial with unique round or oval blossoms that come in multiple vibrant colors.
The clover-like blossoms appear from summer through the first frost. It will return in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11 or can be grown as an annual in cooler regions. It’s easy to care for and can tolerate heat, drought, and neglect.
It’s the perfect plant for beginner gardeners and more experienced homesteaders alike.
Best Species and Cultivars of Gomphrena
There are 120 species in the Gomphrena genus, with several in commercial propagation. While G. globosa is the most common, you’ll also commonly see G. haageana and G. pulchella. Here are a few awesome cultivars:
‘Truffula Pink’ (G. pulchella) has flowers in a lovely pink color that resemble a tree from a Dr. Seuss tale. The color looks beautiful against green foliage such as ferns and other trees. You can see these flowers bloom in summer and through until October.
‘Strawberry Fields’ (G. haageana) is covered in bright red blossoms that do, indeed, resemble strawberries. They have strong stems, so you can harvest these flowers and use them in bouquets.
The dark purple blossoms on ‘Ping Pong Purple’ (G. globosa) bare a striking resemblance to ping pong balls. It grows tall up to 20 inches tall. Sunflowers work well in combination for a fun contrast.
‘Buddy Purple’ (G. globosa) has eye-catching fuchsia flowers on a dwarf plant.
Where and How to Plant Gomphrena
To grow gomphrena plants from seed, start the germination process indoors. You can sow the seeds directly outdoors, but starting inside is better. This gives you more control over the process as you can regulate the temperature if necessary.
You can usually find seeds at specialty retailers or places like Amazon.
A seedling heat mat can be helpful when germinating gomphrena seeds, as this can speed up the process and improve germination rates. Sow the seeds in a seed tray and barely cover them with soil. Place the tray in an area with about six hours of sunlight or supplemental lighting.
Gomphrena seeds germinate slowly and have a low germination rate, so consider sowing more seeds than you need. It takes 2-3 weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Once the seeds germinate, thin them out so they’re a few inches apart.
Harden the seedlings off for a week before you set them in their permanent spot.
Caring for Gomphrena
Once your seedelings are ready to go outdoors, after all risk of frost has passed, pick a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily. Gomphrena can survive in partially shaded locations, but it’s not ideal.
Gomphrena likes well-draining soil that’s slightly sandy, but you can also grow this plant in partially clay soil. The pH levels should be between 6.1 and 6.5.
Gomphrena doesn’t need a lot of supplemental watering, but the plant should get extra moisture during the hot months. Simply check the top two inches of the soil to see if it’s dry and water when required.
Gomphrena works well in raised beds, rock gardens, or as border plants. You can create several patches of different colors of Gomphrena in your garden in combination with other flowering plants like roses.
Globe amaranth also looks great in containers or large pots around your homestead.
Fertilizer
The best way to boost the soil nutrients for your globe amaranth is to add well-rotted manure or compost. Remember that too much fertilizer can’t stop the flowers from blooming and producing foliage.
Maintenance
Pruning is not vital for Gomphrena, but if you want to promote bushier growth, you can cut the plant back at the beginning of the flowering season.
Cut the stems near the leaves and let the plant grow.
If you want to harvest flowers, this is also an excellent way to encourage new growth. Plus, you can make use of the flowers without throwing them away.
Information About Pests and Diseases
Gomphrena doesn’t suffer from too many pests but is vulnerable to powdery mildew. This is mainly a problem when there is overcrowding and high humidity levels.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that will attack the whole plant and leave a white coating.
Apply a copper fungicide or neem oil at the first sign.
The location will play a considerable part when exposing Gomphrena to powdery mildew. Plants that are well-spaced have better air circulation and are less prone to fungal issues.
Watering occasionally will also limit the roots from drying out and keep the plant healthy.
If you can’t save the plant, remove it and check that the disease hasn’t affected any surrounding plants.
Harvesting Gomphrena for Medicinal And Ornamental Use
Native to Central and South America, Gomphrena globosa has been used for centuries as an herbal medicine.
Gomphrena has been used in folk medicine to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular health conditions. Studies indicate that it might also have promise as a modern treatment.
Harvesting your Gomphrena is easy as you only need a pair of garden scissors and a bag or bucket. Cut the flowers when they are fully matured but not fading. This will give you the best color and ensure they can be dried.
To make tea, place the flowers somewhere cool and protected from the sun to dry for a few days. Then, steep the flowers in hot water and strain them after a few minutes. You can mix the liquid with other teas like lemon, ginger, or peppermint for more flavor.
Another option is to use the dried flowers as garnish for salads or in a vase.
The leaves are also tasty as microgreens when they are young. Once the growing season is over, you can harvest the roots and seeds to plant for the next season. You can also eat the seeds – they’re closely related to amaranth, after all.
Dig up the plant to harvest the roots and cut off the remaining stems. Rinse the roots with water and put them aside.
