Flowering Amaranth
Hot Biscuits Amaranth is a striking Amaranthus cruentus cultivar that grows 36 to 48 inches tall (some sources report up to 60 inches) with an upright habit and deep crimson coloring. Hardy in zones 10-12, this frost-tender annual thrives in full sun and low-water conditions, making it surprisingly resilient once established. The variety germinates quickly between 65-75°F and produces edible leaves and grain that have sustained gardeners and cultures for centuries.
Full Sun
Low To Moderate
10-12
48in H x ?in W
Annual
Low
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This amaranth earns its name from the rich, warm color of its grain and foliage, which deepens to a burnished bronze as the plant matures. It's a dual-purpose crop that delivers both nutritious greens for harvesting and a reliable grain yield, all without fussing over water or fertilizer. The upright growth habit makes it easier to manage in smaller garden spaces compared to sprawling varieties, and the ornamental value doesn't diminish its culinary worth.
Hot Biscuits Amaranth serves multiple purposes in the kitchen and garden. The tender young leaves can be harvested and cooked like spinach or used raw in salads when small and tender. As the plant matures, the grain heads develop seeds that are threshed and cooked as a nutritious cereal grain, ground into flour, or popped like miniature popcorn. Both the greens and seeds are nutrient-dense, making this variety valuable for gardeners seeking self-sufficiency.
Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before your average last frost date. Sow seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch on sterile seedling mix and cover lightly. Keep soil temperature between 70-85°F for germination, which typically occurs within 6-15 days. Transplant seedlings outdoors after hardening off once soil temperature reaches 65-75°F and all frost danger has passed.
Transplant seedlings outdoors 4 to 6 weeks after starting them indoors, once your average last frost date has passed and soil temperature is consistently 65-75°F. Space plants 12-15 inches apart to allow adequate room for growth.
Sow seeds directly outdoors 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date, when soil temperature is 65-75°F. Plant seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch.
Begin harvesting tender leaves once the plant is established; younger leaves are milder and more palatable than mature foliage. For grain harvest, wait until the seed heads have fully dried and turned deep brown or bronze. Cut the entire head, hang it upside down in a dry location, and thresh the seeds once completely dry by rubbing the head between your hands or in a cloth bag.
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