Gomphrena globosa Salmon Pastel seeds - Globe Amaranth

The Globe Amaranth or Gomphrena globosa 'Salmon Pastel', is an excellent annual flower for fresh or dried bouquets. It stands out with the salmon hue on its graceful globes, bearing salmon pink flowers with a hint of yellow in the centre. This plant requires virtually no care. It tolerates heat and drought and produces lovely flowers. It brightens up borders from July to September with its architectural presence and can be used in bouquets or dried to extend the season.

Globe Amaranth is best planted in a border. Due to its habit, its effect is more pronounced when planted in groups. Each stem bears a single globe-shaped flower at its top. Additionally, the lanceolate elongated leaves are rather small (5 cm) and closely attached to the stem (they are said to be sessile). The impact is achieved by multiple plants. The plant can reach 50 cm in height when in bloom. Gomphrena globosa, native to Central America, prefers a sunny exposure.

The architectural Globe Amaranth is a plant that can be scattered among other annuals or perennials. Its numerous round heads create unity in a diverse border. Plant them with cosmos, lavenders, or daisies for example. Alternatively, plant them en masse in a variety of colours. They also make attractive vegetable garden flowers. They attract pollinating insects, especially butterflies.

Like some of its relatives in the Amaranthaceae family, it can be used in dried arrangements. Indeed, Amaranthus means: "that does not wither" in Greek. To keep them looking their best, cut them as soon as the flowers appear and start to colour, preserving their evocative shape and colour.