Amaranthus caudatus Dreadlocks (Love-Lies-Bleeding)

An architectural feature in the summer garden, Amaranthus caudatus 'Dreadlocks' (Love-Lies-Bleeding) is an erect, bushy annual noted for its unusual, long tassels of bright magenta flowers in summer and fall. Borne in big, tight, rounded clusters along the stems, they hang down, almost kissing the ground at their tips. The blossoms stand out against the foliage of large, light green, ovate leaves. Wonderfully exotic, this Love-Lies-Bleeding cultivar adds drama in the garden. Its everlasting flowers can be used for fresh or dried arrangements and birds love the seedheads.

• Grows up to 3-5 ft. tall (90-150 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm).
• Performs best in full sun, in fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils. Appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Provide a sheltered location. Will tolerate poor soil, but then requires watering freely during dry periods in summer. Drought tolerant once established.
• Cut back after flowering.
• Generally disease free. Keep an eye our for aphids.
• Propagate by seed sown in-situ in mid-spring , thin to 2 ft. apart (60cm).
• Native to India, Africa and Peru.