Size Matters:
Choosing the Right Amaranth Plant for Your Landscape

Amaranth is a genus of plants that includes over 60 species. They are known for their vibrant, showy flowers and foliage, which come in shades of red, purple, green, and gold. Amaranths are easy to grow and care for, making them an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels.

However, not all amaranths are created equal when it comes to size. Some species can grow up to 8 feet tall, while others stay compact at only a few inches. Choosing the right size amaranth plant for your landscape is important to ensure it fits in with the rest of your plants and doesn’t overwhelm the space.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different sizes of amaranth plants and how to choose the right one for your garden.

Small Amaranth Plants

Small amaranths are perfect for container gardening or as ground covers. They generally grow to be less than 2 feet tall and have a compact, bushy growth habit. Some popular small amaranths include:

• Love-Lies-Bleeding (Amaranthus caudatus)
• Joseph’s Coat (Amaranthus tricolor)
• Summer Poinsettia (Amaranthus gangeticus)

These types of amaranths are ideal for adding a pop of color to a small space or for filling in gaps in a larger garden bed.

Medium Amaranth Plants

Medium-sized amaranths range from 2-4 feet tall and have a more upright growth habit than their smaller counterparts. They can be used as focal points in a garden bed or as background plants to add height and interest. Some popular medium amaranths include:

• Red Spike (Amaranthus cruentus)
• Green Prince (Amaranthus hypochondriacus)
• Velvet Curtains (Amaranthus tricolor)

Medium-sized amaranths are versatile and can be used in a variety of landscaping situations.

Large Amaranth Plants

If you’re looking for a dramatic statement plant, then a large amaranth is the way to go. These plants can reach heights of up to 8 feet tall and have an impressive presence in any garden. Some popular large amaranths include:

• Giant Orange (Amaranthus giganteus)
• Elephant Head (Amaranthus gangeticus)
• True Green (Amaranthus viridis)

Large amaranths are perfect for creating height in the back of a garden bed or as standalone specimens in a large container.

Choosing the Right Size Amaranth Plant

When choosing an amaranth plant for your landscape, consider the size of your garden bed, the surrounding plants, and your overall design aesthetic. If you have limited space or want to create a more intimate feel in your garden, opt for a smaller or medium-sized amaranth. If you have ample space and want to make a bold statement, go for a larger variety.

It’s also important to consider the color of the flowers and foliage when choosing an amaranth plant. Some varieties have bright red flowers, while others have more muted greens or purples. Think about how the colors will complement or contrast with other plants in your garden.

Caring for Your Amaranth Plant

Once you’ve chosen the right size amaranth plant for your landscape, it’s time to care for it properly. Amaranths are generally easy to care for and require little maintenance once established.

Here are some tips for caring for your amaranth plant:

• Water regularly: Amaranths prefer consistently moist soil but don’t like to be waterlogged.
• Fertilize once per month: Use a balanced fertilizer once per month during the growing season.
• Deadhead spent blooms: This will encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
• Cut back after flowering: Once your amaranth has finished blooming, cut it back by about half its height. This will encourage new growth and more flowers.

FAQ

Q: Can I grow amaranths indoors?

A: Yes! Smaller varieties of amaranths can be grown indoors as houseplants. They prefer bright but indirect light and well-draining soil.

Q: Are amaranths edible?

A: Yes! Amaranth leaves are edible and can be used like spinach in salads or cooked dishes. The seeds can also be eaten and are often used in breakfast cereals or granola bars.

Q: Do I need to prune my amaranth plant?

A: You don’t need to prune your amaranth plant unless you want to control its size or shape. If you do choose to prune, wait until after flowering has finished before cutting it back by about half its height.

Q: Are amaranths invasive?

A: Some species of amaranths can be invasive if left unchecked. Always research the specific variety before planting it in your garden and keep an eye on its growth habits over time.

Q: How long do amaranth plants live?

A: Most varieties of amaranths are annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle within one growing season. However, some perennial varieties exist that can live for several years with proper care.