Amaranthus Seeds – Amaranthus spp.
Amaranthus spp. • Amaranthaceae • Native to Central & South America
Amaranthus Seeds grow into bold ornamental plants known for rich foliage, upright plumes, and dramatic garden texture. A striking choice for flower beds, borders, container displays, and seasonal landscape color.
Plant Name: Green Amaranthus Seeds
Quantity: 100 Seeds
Selected: Green Amaranthus Seeds / 100 Seeds
Germination depends on soil, temperature, moisture, and care. See our return policy for details.
At a glance
Amaranth is a prolific self-seeder, so deadhead spent flower heads promptly if you do not want volunteers spreading aggressively throughout your garden beds the following season.
Botanical profile
Meet the Amaranthus – Amaranthus
Step-by-step planting
Growing amaranth from amaranthus seeds is straightforward once you understand its core requirements, and this guide walks you through each stage from soil prep to amaranth harvest.
-
1
Wait for Warm Soil
Direct sow amaranthus seeds outdoors only after your last frost has passed and soil temperatures have reached at least 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, as cold soil stalls amaranth germination and can cause seeds to rot before they sprout.
-
2
Choose the Right Spot
Select a location that receives full sun for at least six to eight hours daily, since amaranth planted in shade becomes leggy and produces fewer seeds or weaker plumes.
-
3
Prepare Loose, Well-Drained Soil
Loosen the soil to a depth of about six inches and work in a modest amount of compost, as amaranth prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and does not perform well in waterlogged conditions.
-
4
Sow Seeds Shallowly
Press amaranthus seeds just barely beneath the soil surface, no deeper than a quarter inch, since they need light to germinate and burying them too deep is one of the most common reasons seedlings fail to emerge.
-
5
Thin Seedlings Carefully
Once seedlings reach two to three inches tall, thin them to stand eighteen to twenty-four inches apart so each plant has room to develop its full root system and canopy without competing for resources.
-
6
Water Consistently but Do Not Overwater
Water young plants regularly to keep the soil evenly moist during establishment, then reduce frequency as plants mature, since established amaranth is notably drought tolerant but still produces more robustly with occasional deep watering during dry spells.
-
7
Time Your Amaranth Harvest
For amaranth grain, wait until the flower heads begin to dry on the stalk and seeds release easily when you rub the plume between your palms, then cut the heads and finish drying them indoors on a screen before threshing.
Year-round care
Spring
- Sow after last frost
- prepare soil with compost
Summer
- Water regularly
- feed monthly
Fall
- Harvest before frost
- store well
Winter
- Rest
- store seeds cool and dry
Full specifications
Shipping
- Orders are delivered within 8 to 16 business days.
- All orders include tracking.
- Free shipping on all orders.
- Seeds are packed in moisture-resistant, resealable foil packets.
Germination
Germination rates vary depending on climate, soil conditions, and care. Seeds perform best when planted in the right season at the correct temperature, with consistent moisture and adequate light. We take quality seriously and each batch is tested before packaging. If you have concerns about your seeds, reach out and we will do our best to help.
Frequently asked
Questions about Amaranthus Seeds – Amaranthus
How long does amaranth take to germinate?
Under warm conditions, with soil temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and consistent moisture, you can typically expect to see seedlings emerge within seven to fourteen days. Amaranth germination is sensitive to temperature and moisture levels, so cooler or inconsistently watered soil will slow the process or prevent sprouting altogether. Factors like soil composition, seed depth, and local climate all play a role, so your results may differ from general timelines.
Can I grow amaranth in containers?
Amaranth can be grown in containers, though it performs far better in large pots of at least five gallons to accommodate its deep taproot and height potential. Choose compact ornamental varieties rather than tall grain types if space is limited, and be prepared to water more frequently since containers dry out faster than garden beds. Place the container in a spot with full sun exposure for the strongest growth.
What USDA zones support amaranth?
Amaranth grows as a warm-season annual across a wide range of climates and is well-suited to amaranth USDA zones 2 through 11, since it is replanted each year rather than relying on winter hardiness. In cooler zones, simply wait until the soil has warmed reliably before sowing, or start seeds indoors three to four weeks before your last frost date. In very hot zones, it actually thrives, making it a strong choice for gardeners in the South and Southwest.
Are amaranth leaves edible?
Yes, edible amaranth leaves are a nutritious green that can be harvested when young and tender, typically from plants that are six to twelve inches tall, and used much like spinach in salads, stir-fries, or sauteed as a side dish. The flavor is mild and slightly earthy, and the leaves become tougher and more bitter as the plant matures and shifts its energy toward flowering. Harvesting leaves early and regularly from the lower portion of the plant encourages continued leafy growth.
How do I harvest amaranth seeds?
For a successful amaranth harvest, watch for the flower plumes to shift from vibrant color to a more muted, dried appearance and check whether seeds fall freely when the head is rubbed firmly. Cut the seed heads with a few inches of stem attached and hang them or lay them on a clean screen in a warm, dry, well-ventilated space for one to two weeks to finish drying completely. Once dry, thresh the heads by rubbing them over a bowl or bucket, then winnow lightly to separate the tiny seeds from chaff before storing.
What soil pH does amaranth prefer?
Amaranth performs well in soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, meaning it tolerates both slightly acidic and mildly alkaline conditions without much trouble. If your soil is heavily compacted or very alkaline, loosening it and adding organic matter will do more to improve growth than attempting aggressive pH correction. A basic home soil test kit can help you gauge where your garden falls before planting.
Is amaranth drought tolerant?
Once established, amaranth is genuinely drought tolerant compared to many vegetable crops, drawing on a deep taproot to access moisture lower in the soil profile during dry periods. That said, seedlings need consistent moisture during the first few weeks while their root systems develop, so do not assume drought tolerance applies from the moment you sow. For grain or seed production, occasional deep watering during extended dry spells will improve yield even in otherwise drought-hardy plants.