(A. hybridus) An amazing backdrop to your flower or vegetable garden, Opopeo continues growing taller and taller (5-6’) with an abundance of deep rich burgundy flower spikes. An incredible and generous cut flower with one or more larger main heads and many side shoots. Long-lasting (minus foliage) and dramatic in a vase and like all amaranths, beloved by the birds as the seeds begin to get plump. The dark green/burgundy leaves are edible when young. Edible cream-colored seeds.
60-65 days. UO

Packet: 150 seeds

[split]

Growing Info

SOWING:

Sow indoors 4-6 weeks before your last frost.

Transplant out after last frost.

May be direct seeded after last frost.

Note: Slow growing until warmer weather. Blink and they are big!

PLANTING DEPTH:

1/8"

SPACING:

12-15" between plants in rows 18" apart.

EMERGENCE:

7-10 days @ soil temp 70-80F

LIGHT:

Full sun

FERTILITY:

Low to average. Well-drained soil is preferred although they are rather forgiving.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

While not absolutely necessary, you may provide staking or netting to keep them upright and tidy.

Remember, amaranth loves warm weather and will grow very slowly until it warms up. You may use row cover to keep them warm after transplanting.

Edible seeds and young leaves for you and other critters. To harvest seeds, wait until flowers are firm and dry to the touch. Seed will rub out easily in your hands and plumes/stalks may be cut and tarped or hung to dry further. Protect from the birds if you're not into sharing!

Fresh or dried flowers.

Harvest flowers when 2/3-3/4 of them are open. Do remove most leaves as they wilt quickly and removal brings focus to the flowers. Expect a vase life of 7-10 days.

Amaranth, 'Opopeo'