Gomphrena globosa

RHS Plant Profile
globe amaranth

Other common names

bachelor's button, globe flower, red globe everlasting, devil's clover

Annual Biennial

An upright, bushy annual with oblong leaves to 15cm long, covered densely with white hair when young, later sparsely. From summer to early autumn it bears spherical flower heads composed of pink, purple or white papery bracts; these are good for cutting

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1 year
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Amaranthaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Gomphrena are spreading or bushy annuals with opposite, simple, ovate leaves and tiny flowers in dense heads, with colourful bracts
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Guatemala, Panama

How to Grow

Cultivation

Plant out after the last frosts into any moderately fertile soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by sowing seed at 15-18°C in early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Bedding

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free