Huge dark burgundy red plumes look as if an elephant is raising its trunk into the air. The Elephant Head Amaranth is a long-timer bloomer that grows to 5 feet, grabbing attention in the garden. It is also an excellent cut flower. An heirloom that was brought here from Germany in the 1880s.

100 seeds

PLANTING

Amaranthus caudatus

Annual

Germination:10-15 days

Germination Temperature:Optimum soil temperatures 65-75F

Seed Planting Depth:Sow on the surface and lightly cover

Starting Indoors: Start indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Provide 65-75F soil temperature. Transplant apart after the last frost, 12-18 apart.

Sowing Outdoors:Starting around the last frost date, sow lightly and thin to 6-8 apart. Sow again in midsummer for late-season blooms

Growth Habit:Upright, branching

Height and Width:48-60” x 36″

Spacing:12-18″ apart

Light Needs:Full sun

Soil Needs:Elephant Head Amaranth needs average to fertile, well-drained soil

Approximate days to flower from seed:60-75 days

Uses:Flower beds, containers, fresh or dried cut flowers, edible seeds and leaves, accent plant

Care:Water seedlings regularly until established. Amend soil with compost before transplanting.Pinch to encourage branching. Water during dry periods.Harvest flowers for drying and hang upside down in a dark room with good airflow.