Thursday, March 6, 2008

Amaranthus (Pigmy Torch, Pigweed, Prince's Feather)

Globeflower Herb with Gomphrena by ©Layne Kennedy

Here comes a brief about Amaranthus species:
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Prince's Feather - Pygmy Torch
Amaranthus, collectively known as amaranth or pigweed, is a cosmopolitan genus of herbs. Approximately 60 species are presently recognised, with inflorescences and foliage ranging from purple and red to gold. Members of this genus share many characteristics and uses with members of the closely related genus Celosia.


Amaranthus caudatus

Amaranthus hypochondriacus (Tassel flower, Love-lies-bleeding, Prince-of-Wales-feather or Prince's feather)

An Amaranthus hypnochondriatus stands in a garden in England, UKOrigins
Amaranthus has a long, distinguished history as a religious and ceremonial plant and as a food. In fact, its use as an ornamental bloom is a relatively recent development. A native of South America, amananthus' name is derived from the Greek amarantos, which means "unfading" and is an appropriate reference to the flower's long-lasting deep red, green or yellow blooms. Amaranthus, also commonly known as love-lies-bleeding and tassel-flower, is one of about 50 species of coarse annual herbs in the Amaranthaceae family and is related to gomphrena and celosia.

amaranthus on garden

Availability and Vase Life
April to December.
7-10 days.

amaranthus hypochondriacusDesign Uses
Amaranthus is a popular choice in arrangements since its striking shades and forms add bold color and interesting texture to floral designs. Its strong shapes make it useful as a form or line flower. Hanging amaranthus is a particularly popular ingredient in waterfall and cascading designs.






Pygmy Torch or  Pig weed

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