How to Grow Amaranth Burgundy Hopi Red Dye
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Amaranth Burgundy Hopi Red Dye
Amaranthus cruentus
vegetableAmaranth Burgundy Hopi Red Dye is a striking dual-purpose plant with deep burgundy-red foliage and ornamental grain heads, traditionally used by Native American tribes for natural dye production. The plant produces both edible leaves rich in nutrients and seed heads that yield a vibrant red pigment. It thrives in warm climates and is extremely drought-tolerant once established.
When should you plant Amaranth Burgundy Hopi Red Dye in your zone?
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Example Amaranth Burgundy Hopi Red Dye timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Amaranth Burgundy Hopi Red Dye
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Amaranth Burgundy Hopi Red Dye
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Amaranth Burgundy Hopi Red Dye dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-10; can grow in zone 5 and warmer with proper care
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Get my Amaranth Burgundy Hopi Red Dye timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
7-14 daysTiny seedlings emerge with first leaves appearing pale green to reddish
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to proper spacing when 2-3 inches tall. Protect from strong winds
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops multiple leaves and stems, foliage deepens to burgundy-red color. Rapid height growth occurs
Water regularly; fertilize every 3-4 weeks with balanced fertilizer or compost. Burgundy coloration intensifies with cooler nights and full sun exposure. Remove competing weeds
Flowering & Grain Head Development
3-4 weeksTerminal grain heads form at top of plant; flower spikes are deep burgundy-red and very ornamental. Leaves remain vibrant colored
Reduce nitrogen to encourage grain production over leaf growth. Continue moderate watering. Grain heads will become dense and heavy as seeds develop. Mulch around base to conserve moisture
Seed Maturation
2-3 weeksGrain heads fully mature with seeds darkening and becoming harder. Plant may dry out; foliage remains burgundy but may yellow slightly
Minimal watering needed. Allow heads to dry on plant if possible. No fertilizer needed. Monitor for pests. Seeds are ready to harvest when heads turn brown and seeds are hard
Harvest Ready
At peak harvest windowSeed heads fully dry and brown; seeds hard and easily removed from chaff. Plant may be completely desiccated
Cut seed heads for drying indoors or let dry completely in field. Harvest leaves anytime for culinary use. Process seeds for both food and dye purposes
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick young caterpillars; use Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray; encourage natural predators like birds
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Row covers on young plants; neem oil spray; diatomaceous earth; encourage beneficial insects
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Increase humidity; spray with water; neem oil or sulfur spray if severe; remove heavily infested leaves
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Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage ladybugs and lacewings
Uses
Nutritious Grain & Flour
CulinaryAmaranth seeds are a complete protein containing all essential amino acids and can be popped like popcorn, cooked as grain, or ground into flour for baking. The seeds are also rich in magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese. [source]
Nutritious Leafy Greens
CulinaryYoung leaves are edible and highly nutritious, similar to spinach with a slightly peppery flavor. Rich in vitamins A, C, and minerals including iron and calcium. [source]
Natural Red Dye Production
HouseholdThe burgundy-red grain heads and foliage yield a vibrant natural dye used traditionally by Hopi and other Native American tribes. The dye can be extracted and used for textiles, fibers, and natural food coloring. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalAmaranth has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to address inflammation, digestive issues, and as a general nutritive tonic. Modern research suggests potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. [source]
Bird Food & Habitat
WildlifeSeed heads left standing provide food for goldfinches, finches, and other seed-eating birds throughout fall and winter. Plants also attract beneficial insects and pollinators. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For leaves: harvest outer leaves continuously once plant reaches 12 inches tall, or cut entire plant 4-6 inches from ground for regrowth. For seeds/dye: harvest grain heads when they turn brown and seeds are hard (usually 90-100 days); cut heads and hang upside down to dry completely (2-3 weeks) before processing. Seeds should be hard and glossy; crack one to verify maturity. Store dried seed heads in cool, dry place
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Amaranth has been cultivated for over 8,000 years and was a staple food of the Aztec civilization; it was so important culturally that the Spanish conquistadors banned its cultivation
- 🌱 The Hopi people have traditionally grown burgundy amaranth for both food and natural dye production, with seeds passed down through generations for centuries
- 🌱 Despite being called a grain, amaranth is technically a pseudocereal—the seeds are produced by a broadleaf plant rather than a true grass
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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