Amaranthus Red Spike

Common Names: Amaranthus, Amaranth, Prince's Feather, Love Lies Bleeding, Cat Tail, Tassel Feather, and Summer Poinsettia

Botanical names: Amaranthus, (am-a-RAN-thus)

Availability: Summer and autumn

Vase life: 7 to 10 days

Storage temperatures: 36 - 38 degrees Fahrenheit

Ethylene Sensitive: Yes

Description: Erect and brush-like flower racemes.

Color: Red, shades of red, green and cream

Botanical facts: Amaranthus is a popular and easy to grow garden flower. It is abundant in the late summer Farmer's Markets.

Design notes: Red Spike Amaranthus, a variety with upright slender spikes up to 18 inches long, adds dramatic interest to floral designs and is very popular among floral designers.

Purchasing hints: Purchase when the blooms are open, but still bright, and the foliage is green and turgid.

Conditioning: Cut stem ends with as sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of water and commercial floral food for two hours before storage or usage.