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Common globe amaranth
Also known as: Globe Flower, Globe amaranth, Makhmali, Thousand Day Red
Common globe amaranth (Gomphrena globosa) is an edible flowering plant native to Central America. Other common names for common globe amaranth are the makhmali and vadamalli. Common globe amaranth is commonly cultivated in landscaping for its bright colors, and is used in leis in Hawaii. Common globe amaranth attracts insects, including butterflies and bees.
Scientific classification
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Annual
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Summer, Fall
Bloom Time
Fall, Winter, Early spring
Harvest Time
20 cm to 60 cm
Plant Height
15 cm to 30 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
2 cm to 3 cm
Flower Size
Green
Fruit Color
White, Purple, Pink, Red, Orange, Yellow, Violet
Flower Color
Green, White, Purple, Pink
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Spring, Summer, Fall
Growth Season
Moderate
Growth Rate

Images of Common globe amaranth

Distribution of Common globe amaranth

Distribution Map
Common globe amaranth is native to Central and South America, most often found in disturbed areas. It has been widely introduced across the subtropics and temperate zones, including several US states, often for use as an ornamental plant. It is also popular in dried arrangements. Common globe amaranth has become invasive in several places it inhabits, including Costa Rica, Cuba.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Tropical
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use
Common globe amaranth is a common material for flowerbeds and borders. Prized for its tall, bright, unique blooms, this plant is a popular garden choice for its ability to attract pollinators. It is a good fit for tropical and seaside gardens and is often planted alongside plants with similar requirements and brightness, like the zinnia and celosia.
Symbolism
Unquenchable love
Interesting Facts
According to legend, there was a couple living on the seashore. The man went out fishing and didn’t return, and the woman was depressed and ended up dying. Her grave grew flowers. Unexpectedly, after thousands of days, the man came back and cried on the grave. The flowers that bloomed for thousands of days withered. This flower was later called globe amaranth.
Name Story
Common globe amaranth: This plant is related to the Cockscomb and Love-Lies-Bleeding. Interestingly, the plant typically blossoms throughout the summer and early autumn and the flowers are globe-shaped. The most common color is purple-red colored, so it is called common globe amaranth.
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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Common globe amaranth, including the following common varieties :

Quickly Identify Common globe amaranth

1
Opposite oblong leaves, woolly-white to green transition, 0.8-5 inches (2-13 cm).
2
Clover-like flower heads, 1 inch (2.5 cm), pink, purple, white, and red hues.
3
Erect, stout stem with grey strigose hairs, bushy branching, robust structure.
4
Tiny white to yellow flowers in globose heads, bracts with acuminate tips.
5
Closed utricle fruit, shiny reddish-brown kidney-shaped seed with protective coating.
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Care Guide for Common globe amaranth

Twice per week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Common globe amaranth originates from tropical regions, thriving in high humidity and warmth. It prefers consistent moisture, with watering twice a week to keep soil evenly moist. Typically grown outdoors, common globe amaranth flourishes under sunlight and rain patterns during its active growing season, enhancing its flower display.
Fertilize: For vibrant blossoms, common globe amaranth benefits from high phosphorus fertilizers and monthly balanced applications during the growing season. Begin with a quarter-strength solution, increasing to half-strength as common globe amaranth matures. Adjust fertilization in cooler months and monitor for over-fertilization to protect roots and foliage.
Pruning: Common globe amaranth thrives with spring pruning to remove dead stems and boost growth. Pinching young shoots enhances bushiness and flowers. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent infections. Regular pruning improves air circulation and sun exposure, promoting a healthier, more vigorous plant.
Propagation: The ideal propagation method for common globe amaranth is sowing seeds in spring. This plant has high germination rates, with successful propagation shown through steady growth. For best results, maintain proper moisture and sunlight.
Repotting: Common globe amaranth requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive properly, ensuring appropriate moisture levels and preventing root rot.
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