How to Grow Amaranth Burgundy Red
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Amaranth Burgundy Red
Amaranthus cruentus
vegetableAmaranth Burgundy Red is a striking ornamental and edible grain amaranth with deep burgundy-red foliage and dramatic drooping flower heads. Both the leaves and nutrient-dense grain seeds are edible, making it a dual-purpose crop. This hardy annual grows tall and produces abundantly in warm conditions.
When should you plant Amaranth Burgundy Red in your zone?
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Example Amaranth Burgundy Red timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Amaranth Burgundy Red
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 Red
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Amaranth Burgundy Red dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-10; can grow as annual in zones 3-4 with warm season cultivation
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny plants with first pair of true leaves emerging; seedlings are delicate and burgundy-tinged. Height 1-3 inches.
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart when 2-3 inches tall. Protect from slugs and excessive wind.
Vegetative/Leaf Growth
3-4 weeksRapid stem and leaf expansion; burgundy coloration intensifies. Plant reaches 1-2 feet tall with multiple branches. Leaves are large, deeply colored, and edible.
Water regularly and provide light fertilizer every 3-4 weeks. Pinch off top tips to encourage bushier growth if desired. Monitor for pests.
Flowering/Inflorescence Development
2-3 weeksTerminal panicle emerges at top of plant; dramatic drooping flower spikes develop in deep burgundy-red. Plant reaches mature height of 3-5 feet.
Continue watering and fertilizing. Allow flower heads to fully develop. No deadheading needed if harvesting for grain.
Grain Maturation
3-4 weeksFlowers fade; inflorescence hardens and seeds develop within bracts. Seed heads become heavier and droop further. Plant begins to brown and dry.
Reduce watering slightly. Monitor for birds and rodents interested in seeds. Ensure adequate air circulation.
Harvest/Senescence
1-2 weeksSeeds are plump, hard, and easily shaken from bracts. Foliage begins to yellow and dry. Seeds rattle when head is shaken.
Harvest when seed heads dry to brown; do not wait for complete plant death as seeds may shatter. Cut entire heads and hang to finish drying indoors.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick affected leaves; use neem oil spray; encourage natural predators; row covers on young plants
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Row covers on seedlings; spinosad or pyrethrin sprays; diatomaceous earth; encourage ground beetles
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Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage ladybugs and lacewings
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Increase humidity; neem oil spray; sulfur dust; avoid overhead watering that reduces humidity
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and
(seed predation)
Netting or bird mesh over seed heads; scare devices; harvest promptly when seeds mature
Uses
Grain and Flour
CulinaryAmaranth seeds are gluten-free and can be popped like popcorn, ground into nutritious flour, or cooked as a grain similar to quinoa. The seeds are approximately 13-14% protein by weight. [source]
Leafy Greens
CulinaryYoung burgundy leaves are edible raw in salads or cooked like spinach. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and minerals including calcium and iron, with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalAmaranth leaves and seeds have been used in traditional medicine for their high mineral content and potential anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is valued in Ayurvedic and other traditional practices. [source]
Natural Dye Source
HouseholdThe deep burgundy foliage and seeds can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, producing shades of red, purple, and burgundy depending on mordant used. [source]
Seed Source for Birds
WildlifeIf left standing, mature seed heads provide an excellent late-season food source for songbirds and other wildlife, particularly finches and sparrows. [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 from 30-50 days, pinching off tender top leaves and stems when plant is 6-12 inches tall; continue harvesting as plant grows. For grain: Wait until seed heads are completely dry and brown (typically 90-100 days), then cut entire panicles and hang upside down in a dry, protected area for 1-2 weeks. Shake heads over a cloth to collect seeds. Remove chaff by winnowing in slight breeze or using a fine strainer. Store dry seeds in airtight container.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Amaranth was a staple crop of the Aztecs and was called 'the grain of the gods'; it was nearly lost after Spanish conquest but is experiencing a global revival as a superfood.
- 🌱 Unlike most grains, amaranth seeds are rich in the amino acid lysine, making them a complete protein when combined with other grains—a quality that made them nutritionally important in ancient civilizations.
- 🌱 The genus name Amaranthus comes from Greek, meaning 'unfading flower,' referring to the long-lasting dried flower heads that retain their color and structure for months or even years.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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