Gomphrena globosa | Gomphrena, Globe Flower, Globe Amaranth

Gomphrena globosa | Gomphrena, Globe Flower, Globe Amaranth

Amaranthaceae family (Amaranth Family) Pronounced AM-ar-an-THAY-see-eye

Pronounced Gom-FREE-nah  Go-bowh-sah

The globosa variety is the most commonly grown. I am not sure what species I planted in 2024. I had wanted to plant some by seed, but with our drainage pipe work, I ran out of time. When I saw one in the store, I grabbed it. This is my first experience with it and I wondered if I would like it because it is so small. I think I am really going to love this plant and plan on buying seeds next year.

This plant is an annual in my zone of 7a (formerly 6b).

This makes great cut flowers and dried flowers.

Heights are from 12 to 24 inches and it loves the sun.

Taller species may need staking.

Pinching encourages a bushier plant.

The globe-shaped mini flowers are on upright stems. It is said the flowerheads are clover-like.

Flowers come in pink, purple, white, orange, and red.

The flowers are only visible close up and are tiny white or yellow trumpets. The flower part that is noticeable are actually the bracts which have a papery-texture.

This is an old-fashioned flower that has become hybridized.

Notes on other species:

Gomphrena haageana is taller and is orange.

Gomphrena pulchella

Gomprhena macrocephala

The Buddy Series is a dwarf variety (9 to 12 inches) from Ernst Benary, including 'Buddy Purple', 'Buddy Rose' and 'Buddy White.'

2024