Globe Amaranth
Gomphrena globosa
Globe Amaranth is a heat-loving tropical annual prized for its perfectly round, clover-like flower heads in vivid shades of magenta, pink, purple, white, and orange. Its papery blooms hold their color exceptionally well when dried, making it one of the most enduring flowers in both gardens and floral crafts.
Amaranthaceae (Amaranth family)
Early summer through first frost (June–October); extraordinarily long blooming season
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: amaranthuss and gomphrenas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Globe Amaranth carries profound symbolic weight across multiple cultures, primarily because of its remarkable ability to retain its vivid color for years after drying — a quality that has made it a near-universal symbol of immortality, undying love, and eternal devotion. In Victorian flower language it meant "unfading love." In India it holds special religious significance, used extensively in temple offerings and festival garlands, especially during Diwali, where its vibrant magenta heads are strung into decorative chains. In Thailand, dried Globe Amaranth flowers are sold at temples as offerings. In Japan it is called "Senninko" — meaning "one-thousand-person flower" or "longevity flower." The plant's resilience in extreme heat further reinforces its associations with endurance and constancy.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; requires at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established; avoid overwatering which causes root rot
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Moderately fertile, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.8–7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Direct sow after last frost or start indoors 4–6 weeks early; seeds germinate in 10–14 days
Pinch young plants to encourage bushier growth and more flower heads
Deadheading is not required as spent heads are not unsightly, but it prolongs blooming
Thrives in heat — do not plant out too early; cold temperatures stunt growth
For drying, harvest stems just as flower heads are fully open and hang upside down in a warm, airy space
Extremely tolerant of poor soils and drought — excess fertilizer produces more foliage than flowers
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Long-blooming summer bedding plant
- Dried flower arrangements and wreaths
- Cut flower with excellent vase life
- Container and pot planting
- Edging and border front planting
- Traditional garlands and festival flower decorations in South and Southeast Asia
Traditional Uses
- Used in traditional medicine in India and Southeast Asia: flower infusions are taken for coughs, respiratory conditions, and as a tonic
- In Thai traditional medicine, Globe Amaranth flowers are used to treat eye diseases and urinary disorders
- Rich in betacyanins and flavonoids; studied for antioxidant properties
- Flowers used to make a naturally colored herbal tea popular in Thailand and Cambodia
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Globe Amaranth
What does Globe Amaranth symbolize?
Globe Amaranth symbolizes immortality, undying love, and constancy. Because its vivid flower heads retain their color for years after drying without fading, it has become a near-universal symbol of everlasting affection, eternal devotion, and endurance across many cultures and traditions.
How do you dry Globe Amaranth flowers?
Harvest stems when the flower heads are fully open and at peak color. Bundle 8–10 stems together, secure with a rubber band, and hang upside down in a warm, dry, well-ventilated location away from direct sunlight. They typically dry fully within 2–3 weeks and will retain their color for years.
Is Globe Amaranth the same as regular Amaranth?
No. Globe Amaranth (Gomphrena globosa) and true Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) are in the same plant family (Amaranthaceae) but are different genera. Amaranthus species produce tall, tassel-like flower plumes and are often grown for edible grain or leaves, while Gomphrena is grown purely as an ornamental for its round flower heads.
Does Globe Amaranth come back every year?
In temperate climates Globe Amaranth is grown as an annual and does not survive frost. However, in tropical and subtropical climates it can behave as a short-lived perennial. In temperate gardens it often self-seeds freely, giving the impression of returning each year.
Is Globe Amaranth heat and drought tolerant?
Yes, Globe Amaranth is exceptionally heat and drought tolerant — in fact it performs best in hot, dry conditions. It is one of the most reliable summer annuals for hot climates, continuing to bloom prolifically through high temperatures that cause many other flowers to struggle.
What is Globe Amaranth used for in South Asia?
In India and Southeast Asia, Globe Amaranth flowers are widely used for temple offerings, festival garlands, and Diwali decorations. In Thailand the dried flowers are sold at Buddhist temples as offerings. The flowers are also brewed into a naturally colored herbal tea in Cambodia and Thailand.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Amaranthus
Amaranthus caudatus (and other spp.)
Amaranthus produces distinctive drooping or upright flower clusters in vibrant colors. They symbolize immortality, unfading love, and endurance.
Gomphrena
Gomphrena globosa
Gomphrena produces round, papery flower heads in vibrant colors that retain their color when dried, making them perfect for both fresh and dried flower arrangements.
Zinnia
Zinnia elegans (and other Zinnia spp.)
Zinnias are vibrant, daisy-like annuals cherished for their profuse blooms in a wide array of colors. They symbolize thoughts of absent friends, endurance, and lasting affection.