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Annual BiennialBedding

Amaranthus hybridus

pilewort

An annual plant with an upright growth habit and flower spikes. Green stems, leaves and flowers can be tinged with red colouring. Flowers are produced in summer and autumn. Seeds provide food for birds

Other common names
callaloo
tampala
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Red
Summer Green Red Green Red
Autumn Green Red Green Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Amaranthaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Columnar upright
Genus

Amaranthus can be upright or spreading annuals or short-lived perennials, with simple leaves and tiny flowers borne in dense, erect or pendulous, catkin-like inflorescences in summer and autumn

Name status

Unresolved

How to grow

Cultivation

Seeds can be sown direct or started in pots or trays indoors in spring. Grow in moist, fertile, humus-rich soil in full sun, in a sheltered site. Can self-seed

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Bedding
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pinch out main stem to encourage branching. Cut down after flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to a virus

Get involved

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