Overview
Amaranthus rubra is a bushy annual biennial in the genus Amaranthus, part of the Amaranthaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Amaranthus rubra 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 rubra is a bushy cultivar of the Amaranthus genus, which includes annuals and short-lived perennials with simple leaves and small flowers arranged in dense, catkin-like clusters. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun and prefers a sheltered position with loam soil that is neutral in pH and moist but well-drained. It is hardy to H1a and is best suited to fertile, moist soil conditions. Amaranthus rubra is ideal for cottage and informal gardens, city and courtyard gardens, and can be used in flower borders and beds, offering interest during the summer and autumn seasons.
About the genus
Amaranthus is a genus of plants commonly known as amaranths. Some species are known by variants of the common name "pigweed". Some members are annual and others are perennial.
Wikipedia contributors, "Amaranth", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Amaranth
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 rubra 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 rubra
- 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 rubra?
Amaranthus rubra prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Amaranthus rubra need?
Amaranthus rubra grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Amaranthus rubra hardy in the UK?
Amaranthus rubra 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 rubra?
Seed sown at 20°C (68°F) in mid-spring.
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