Vibrant color. Easy growth. Incredible dye potential.
Amaranthus is a striking, fast-growing plant known for its vivid flower spikes and rich magenta-red pigment, perfect for natural dyeing. Whether you're planting for color, texture, or dye use, this annual performs well in many garden conditions and makes a bold statement both in your beds and in your dye pots.
Basic Info:
- Common Names: Amaranth, Love-lies-bleeding, Tassel Flower
- Color (for dyeing): Deep magenta to red (can yield pink, purple, or brown tones)
- Flower Type: Panicle
- Scientific Name: Amaranthus caudatus (or Amaranthus cruentus for certain dye varieties)
Cultivation Info:
- Days to Maturity: 60–75 days
- USDA Hardiness Zone: Grown as annual in Zones 2–11
- Planting Depth: 1/4 inch (lightly covered)
- Plant Spacing: 10–12 inches apart
- Growth Habit: Upright; can grow 3–8 feet tall depending on variety
- Soil Preference: Well-drained, loamy soil; tolerates poor soils
- Light Preference: Full sun (6+ hours per day)
Additional Information:
- Taxonomy: Family Amaranthaceae
- Seed Type: Open-pollinated or heirloom (available in ornamental and grain types)
- Sow Instructions: Direct sow after last frost or start indoors 4–6 weeks prior; germinates in 7–10 days at 70–75°F
- Diseases: Damping off (indoors), downy mildew, rust
- Pests: Aphids, flea beetles, leaf miners (rarely serious)
Natural Dyeing Use:
Amaranthus flowers produce a brilliant red to fuchsia dye that adheres best to natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool. Best results are achieved with an alum mordant. You can achieve variations in tone using modifiers like iron or vinegar. The plant can also be used fresh or dried.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Leggy Growth? Ensure full sun and don’t over-fertilize.
- Weak Stems? Stake taller varieties or grow in protected areas.
- Poor Germination? Avoid burying seeds too deep and maintain warm, moist soil.