Seeds 9 g

Love-Lies-Bleeding (Amaranthus caudatus) is one of the most theatrical annuals you can grow, sending out long, drooping tassels — up to around 30 cm — that shade from deep red to gold and sway like ropes from arching stems. The bold, sculptural form makes it a real eye-catcher in a sunny border, while the same tassels make wonderful cut flowers, lasting about 7-10 days in the vase and drying beautifully for everlasting displays.

Planting

This is a frost-tender, heat-loving annual, so sow only once the soil is warm — at least about 16 C — as germination is unreliable below this. Direct-sow in spring or start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost and transplant out afterwards. The seed is tiny: barely cover it, around 0.3 cm deep, or just press it onto the surface. At 21-24 C seedlings emerge in about 7-10 days. Thin or space plants roughly 30 cm apart, up to 45-60 cm for larger trailing forms. Choose a sheltered spot in full sun (6+ hours) for the richest colour.

Fertilizing

Feeding needs are low. In fertile, humus-rich soil little or no fertilizer is required, though a balanced all-purpose feed such as 10-10-10 can be used. Avoid high or synthetic nitrogen, which dulls leaf colour and causes the foliage to build up nitrates.

Care

Grow in moist, well-drained soil around pH 6-7, keeping it evenly moist for the best growth and most vibrant colour. Established plants tolerate some drought, but poor soils need freer watering in dry spells. Tall trailing specimens reaching 0.9-1.5 m may need staking. Watch for aphids, and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Blooms run from summer through autumn until cold weather slows them.