Amaranthus caudatus (Love-Lies-Bleeding)

An architectural feature in the summer garden, Amaranthus caudatus (Love-Lies-Bleeding) is a striking, erect annual or biennial noted for its unusual, long tassel-like racemes of tiny crimson flowers in summer and fall. The blossoms stand out against the foliage of large, light green, ovate leaves, 10 in. long (25 cm). Wonderfully exotic, Amaranthus caudatus features an upright, bushy habit and adds drama in the garden. Great for the back of the border or as a filler. Its everlasting flowers can be used for fresh or dried arrangements and birds love the seedheads.

• Grows up to 3-8 ft. tall (90-240 cm) and 1-3 ft. wide (30-90 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.