Amaranthus cruentus Velvet Curtains Seeds

Amaranthus cruentus 'Velvet Curtains' is a striking annual with dark crimson foliage and erect, silky plumes of flowers that retain their colour all season long. This eye-catching, highly ornamental annual is fast-growing. It is perfect to create a dramatic backdrop in flower beds or borders and is suitable for growing in pots and containers that can be overwintered indoors. Amaranthus are known to be excellent cut flowers, their long-lasting blooms can be used in both fresh and dried floral arrangements. Easy to grow in a sunny location in well-drained, cool soil.

Amaranthus cruentus, sometimes referred to as Blood amaranth, Purple amaranth or Prince’s feather, is a perennial plant (often grown as an annual) that originated in America and can now be found growing worldwide. It belongs to the Amaranthaceae family. “Amaranthus” is the Greek word for "unfading" as flowers and leaves hold their colour remarkably well. 'Velvet Curtains' rapidly forms vigorous, upright, bushy clumps that grow to a height of 1,20 m for a width of 60 cm. The large, 15-cm-long heart-shaped leaves have distinct veining and taper to a pointed tip. They are purple with a silvery grey sheen, deepening in colour when exposed to sunlight, and are alternately arranged around thick, sturdy stems. From July to September/October, remarkable “plumes” emerge, bearing masses of tiny crimson red flowers on erect, well-branched panicles.

Amaranthus cruentus 'Velvet Curtains' is a spectacular plant that brings a dramatic intensity to arrangements, borders and flower beds. It looks sensational when planted in groups or in large pots on the patio. Its deep red colour will combine well with silver-leaved Jacobaea maritima or Mugwort, blue cornflowers, or the golden panicles of Foxtail barley. Choose a sunny location that is sheltered from strong winds, in well-drained, cool soil. Amaranthus are excellent cut flowers – avoid overfilling the vase and make sure to change the water often to prevent stem rot.