Globe Amaranth

Gomphrena globosa L.

gom-FREEN-ah GLOBE-oh-sah

Amaranthaceae

Explanation of name:   The generic name is ancient for Amaranths. Globosa refers to the globe-shaped flowering head.

Natural range:   Asia (FNA)

Recognition:  Flowering head globe-shaped, subtended by two leafy bracts (vs. Alternanthera), consisting mostly of small dry papery bracts, these usually brightly colored, reddish, mauve, pinks, or white.  According to CHR ‘Buddy’ is short-statured and purple. ‘Cissy’ is white. ‘Strawberry Fields’ is red.

Landscape uses:  Colorful annual suitable for South Florida summers. Long-lasting, good for summer-autumn, also cut flowers.  Very tough, tolerant of bad soil and harsh dry conditions (but looks best with medium water).  Start from seeds.

Internet source: http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=200007002