How to Grow Amaranth Inca Gold Velvet Curtains
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Amaranth Inca Gold Velvet Curtains
Amaranthus hypochondriacus
flowerInca Gold Velvet Curtains is an ornamental amaranth cultivar prized for its dramatic, velvety deep burgundy-red flower spikes that cascade downward like curtains. This tall, striking annual produces dense, rope-like inflorescences and attractive foliage, making it a stunning focal point in gardens and cut flower arrangements. The plants reach 4-6 feet tall and create a bold visual impact throughout the growing season.
When should you plant Amaranth Inca Gold Velvet Curtains in your zone?
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Example Amaranth Inca Gold Velvet Curtains timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Amaranth Inca Gold Velvet Curtains
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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First Amaranth Inca Gold Velvet Curtains blooms
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-11; grows best in warm climates but adaptable
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Get my Amaranth Inca Gold Velvet Curtains timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksSmall plants with 2-4 true leaves and distinctive reddish-tinged foliage emerging from soil
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once 2-3 inches tall.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksRapid stem elongation with multiple leaves, plant height increasing noticeably; foliage develops deeper red tones
Ensure full sun exposure for best color development. Support tall varieties with stakes if in windy locations. Water regularly but allow some drying between waterings.
Peak Bloom
4-6 weeksFull, dramatic deep burgundy-red cascading flower spikes fully developed, plant at maximum height (4-6 feet), rich color saturation achieved
This is the prime display period. Monitor for pests. Harvest cut flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. Maintain moderate watering.
Seed Set & Decline
3-4 weeks until frostFlowers fade to russet tones, seeds develop in flower head, foliage may yellow slightly
Allow some flower heads to mature for seed collection if desired. Remove plants before they drop too many seeds if self-seeding is undesired.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream, use insecticidal soap, introduce ladybugs, or use neem oil
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Increase humidity, spray with water, apply neem oil or miticide, ensure adequate spacing for air circulation
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Use row covers when young, hand-pick, apply kaolin clay spray, or use spinosad
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Apply neem oil or spinosad, use row covers on seedlings, apply diatomaceous earth
Uses
Grain and Seeds
CulinaryAmaranth seeds are a highly nutritious pseudocereal with complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids. The grain can be popped like popcorn, ground into flour, or cooked as a porridge. [source]
Cut and Dried Flowers
HouseholdThe dramatic velvety spikes are prized by florists and flower arrangers for fresh and dried arrangements. The flowers hold their deep color for weeks and dry exceptionally well for long-term display. [source]
Edible Leaves
CulinaryYoung amaranth leaves are edible with a mild spinach-like flavor and can be consumed raw in salads or cooked as greens. They are rich in calcium, iron, and vitamins. [source]
Bird Food Source
WildlifeMature seed heads attract and feed finches, sparrows, and other seed-eating birds throughout late summer and fall, supporting local wildlife. [source]
Ornamental Display Plant
CraftThe tall, dramatic burgundy-red cascading flower spikes create a striking focal point in gardens, border backings, and landscape design for bold visual impact. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cut flower spikes when fully colored for longest vase life (7-10 days in water). Cut in early morning after dew dries. For dried arrangements, harvest at peak color and hang bundles upside-down in a warm, dry location for 2-3 weeks. Allow some flower heads to mature on plant for seed collection in fall.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Amaranth was a staple grain of the Aztecs and Incas, revered for its nutritional density and ceremonial significance. The name 'amaranth' comes from the Greek word 'amarantos,' meaning 'unfading,' referring to the flowers' ability to retain color even when dried.
- 🌱 The velvety texture of the flower spikes comes from thousands of tiny individual flowers packed densely together. A single inflorescence can contain over 40,000 individual seeds.
- 🌱 Amaranth is exceptionally drought-tolerant and thrives in poor soil where many other plants struggle, making it valuable for arid climates and sustainable agriculture. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine across Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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