Love-Lies-Bleeding – Amaranthus Seed

Description

Love-Lies-Bleeding, an heirloom variety of Amaranthus, is famous for its dramatic, cascading tassels of deep crimson flowers. This striking annual adds texture and vibrant color to garden beds, borders, and flower arrangements. Its bold, trailing blooms make it a unique choice for cottage gardens, pollinator habitats, and even as a cut or dried flower.

Key Features:

• Eye-Catching Tassels: Long, drooping crimson flower clusters create a dramatic focal point.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for garden beds, borders, containers, and floral arrangements.
• Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
• Drought Tolerant: Thrives in dry, sunny locations with minimal maintenance.
• Multipurpose Plant: Leaves and seeds are edible, often used in salads and cooking.
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Specifications:

• Plant Height: 36-60 inches (90-150 cm)
• Spread: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
• Flower Colors: Deep crimson-red
• Blooming Season: Mid-summer to fall
• Sun Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Type: Well-drained soil; tolerates poor soils
• Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• Package Size: 500+ seeds per pack
• Germination Time: 7-14 days
• Planting Depth: 1/8 inch (3 mm)
• USDA Hardiness Zones: Grown as an annual in all zones

Growing Tips:

• Seed Starting: Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost or start indoors 6-8 weeks earlier. Lightly cover seeds with soil.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during germination, but avoid overwatering. Mature plants are drought-tolerant.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart for healthy growth.
• Deadheading: Not required but can enhance aesthetics. Allow seeds to mature for self-seeding or culinary use.

Companion Plants: Complements sunflowers, zinnias, and cosmos for a vibrant display.

Culinary and Decorative Uses:

• Edible Seeds and Leaves: Seeds are nutrient-rich and can be used in grain dishes or as flour, while young leaves are excellent in salads or sautéed.
• Dried Flower Arrangements: Retains its dramatic appearance when dried, making it a favorite for crafts and decorations.