Love-Lies-Bleeding

Amaranthus caudatus is a striking annual flower native to the Andes of South America, grown both for its dramatic pendant flower tassels and its edible seeds. The long, rope-like plumes in deep crimson, burgundy, or green cascade from tall stems reaching up to 170 cm. It thrives in warm, sunny conditions and is exceptionally tolerant of poor or dry soils. Seeds are edible and have been cultivated as a grain crop in Andean cultures for centuries.

Growing

Start seeds indoors at a soil temperature of at least 18 °C, sowing at 0.5 cm depth. Germination takes 10–20 days. Grow on under bright light for approximately 6 weeks before transplanting outdoors once nights consistently stay above 10 °C and all frost risk has passed. Space plants 20 cm apart. Alternatively, direct-sow into warm outdoor soil once air temperatures are reliably warm, thinning to 20 cm spacing.

Care

Water moderately; amaranth is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from consistent moisture during establishment. Feed with a balanced fertiliser at transplant; avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. Stake taller plants in exposed positions. Remove competing weeds early, as young seedlings are slow to establish against weed pressure.

Harvest

Harvest cut flowers when the tassels are fully developed and the lower portion of the plume has just begun to show tiny open flowers — stems cut at this stage last longest in a vase. For dried arrangements, harvest when fully developed and hang upside-down in a dry, airy space. For seed harvest, allow plumes to dry fully on the plant until seeds fall freely when the stem is shaken.

In the kitchen

The tiny seeds can be cooked as a porridge grain, popped like popcorn in a dry pan, or sprouted as microgreens. Young leaves are edible and can be used as a spinach substitute in stir-fries and soups. Dried flower plumes make striking permanent decorations. Popped seeds can be used as a topping for salads, yoghurt, or bread.

Storing

Dried seed heads keep indefinitely in a cool, dry place away from light. Clean seeds store for up to 3 years in an airtight container in a cool, dry location. Cut flowers last 7–10 days in water at room temperature. Dried plumes can be stored in a dry room for ornamental use for several years without significant colour loss.