Amaranthus tricolor (Josephs Coat)
Grown for its multi-colored foliage, Amaranthus tricolor (Joseph’s Coat) is a bushy, upright annual with large, ovate leaves, 10 in. long (25 cm). While the species features green to purple leaves, the foliage of some cultivars can be a striking combination of brilliant yellow, red, pink or copper.
Grown for its multi-colored foliage, Amaranthus tricolor (Joseph's Coat) is a bushy, upright annual with large, ovate leaves, 10 in. long (25 cm). While the species features green to purple leaves, the foliage of some cultivars can be a striking combination of brilliant yellow, red, pink or copper. The small green to red flowers are insignificant. Wonderfully exotic and easy to grow, Amaranthus tricolor adds drama in the garden. It is grown as an edible crop in some parts of the world.
- Grows up to 2-4 ft. tall (60-120 cm) and 1-2 ft. wide (30-60 cm).
- Performs best in full sun, in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils. Appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Drought tolerant once established.
- Generally disease free. Keep an eye our for aphids.
- Propagate by seed.
- Native to Tropical Asia.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 2 – 11 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 1 – 11 |
| Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2 |
| Plant Type | Annuals |
| Plant Family | Amaranthus – Amaranths |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall |
| Height | 2' – 4' (60cm – 120cm) |
| Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spacing | 24″ (60cm) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Tolerance | Drought |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders |
| Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage |