Oeschberg Amaranth is a striking heirloom flower that grows 36-48 inches tall, producing vibrant blooms from early summer through late fall across zones 2-11. This heat-loving annual flowers reliably in 84 days from seed and thrives on minimal water, making it an exceptionally low-maintenance addition to gardens that need color without fuss. The edible seeds and foliage add practical value to its ornamental appeal, while its drought tolerance means it performs beautifully even when summer turns dry.
Full Sun
Low
2-11
48in H x 36in W
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Moderate
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This is amaranth bred for serious color and resilience. Oeschberg produces dense flower heads that command attention in the garden, and its hardiness across nearly every North American zone speaks to its adaptability. The combination of true heirloom genetics with genuine drought tolerance and a fast 84-day bloom window makes this a rare plant that delivers on ornament, food, and ease in equal measure.
Oeschberg Amaranth serves dual purposes in the garden and kitchen. The dramatic flower heads are prized as cut flowers and dried arrangements, retaining their color and form for months when harvested at peak bloom. The seeds are edible and highly nutritious, harvestable once the flower heads dry down, while the young leaves can be harvested and cooked as a tender green vegetable similar to spinach.
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Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date. Sow thinly into seed-starting mix and barely cover with soil (1/16 inch is sufficient). Keep the soil evenly moist and maintain temperatures between 65-75°F. Using a humidity dome or sprinkling a thin layer of vermiculite over the pots will help prevent damping off. Expect germination within 3-14 days.
Harden off seedlings gradually over 7-10 days, then transplant outdoors after your last frost date when soil has warmed. Space plants 2 inches apart.
Direct sow seeds outdoors after your last frost date, barely covering them (1/16 inch depth). Soil should be warm, ideally in the 65-95°F range.
For seed harvest, allow flower heads to fully mature and begin to dry on the plant, which typically occurs 84 days after planting. The heads will change color and papery texture will develop; harvest them when they feel dry and seeds are dark. Hang the dried flower heads upside down in a warm, airy location to finish drying, then thresh seeds by rubbing the dried heads between your hands. For foliage, harvest young leaves anytime during the growing season by pinching or cutting them from the top of the plant.
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