Overview
Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Cathedral' is a bushy annual biennial in the genus Amaranthus, part of the Amaranthaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Cathedral' grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, city and courtyard gardens, sub-tropical, cut flowers and flower borders and beds.
About
Amaranthus cruentus is a flowering plant species that is native from Central Mexico to Nicaragua. It yields a nutritious staple amaranth grain, being one of three Amaranthus species cultivated as a grain source, the other two being Amaranthus hypochondriacus and Amaranthus caudatus.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Amaranthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Cathedral' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Sub-tropical, Cut flowers, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Cathedral'
- Propagation
- Seed sown at 20°C (68°F) in mid-spring
- Pest resistance
- Aphids
- Disease resistance
- Virus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Cathedral'?
Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Cathedral' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Cathedral' need?
Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Cathedral' grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Cathedral' hardy in the UK?
Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Cathedral' has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Cathedral'?
Seed sown at 20°C (68°F) in mid-spring.
More in the Amaranthus genus
- Amaranthus hypochondriacus 'Rio San Lorenzo'
- Amaranthus retroflexuscommon amaranth
- Amaranthus 'Flaming Fountains'
- Amaranthus rubra