Gomphrena (Gomphrena globosa) may sound a bit odd but if you want a wonderful add-on to your home garden, then you would better get used to this name. Gomphrena is also known as globe flower or globe amaranth, native to Panama and Guatemala.

As the name suggests, Gomphrena produces globe-shaped blossoms with papery bracts in dainty shades of lavender, purple, pink, red, magenta, blue, orange and white. Gomphrena s unique texture and beauty are highly valued for dried flower or cut flower arrangements. Gomphrena can reach about 25 cm to 45 cm in height and each tiny bloom measures about 1 inch in diameter.

Each Gomphrena plant can produce dozens of showy flower heads from midsummer to frost, displaying a serene view. This sun-loving plant attracts a variety of butterflies to your home garden— a perfect mix to brighten up your landscape effortlessly.

PLANTING AND CARE

Growing globe amaranth is not difficult at all. Start seeds indoors six weeks before the last frost. They will germinate faster if you soak them in water prior to planting. If you wish to sow them outdoors, wait until the soil has warmed and there is no chance of frost.