Amaranth 'Velvet Curtains'

Velvet Curtains (Amaranthus caudatus)

Velvet Curtains amaranth lives up to its name with rich, deep burgundy foliage that adds a dramatic, velvety backdrop to any garden. Upright plumes rise gracefully from the dark leaves, their feathery texture slightly lighter in shade than Red Spike, creating a beautiful contrast of tones and form. This striking variety is a favourite for bold borders, woodland edges, and statement floral arrangements, bringing an air of mystery and sophistication to late-season plantings. Pollinators are drawn to its abundant blooms, making it a valuable and ornamental addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.

Whether harvested fresh or allowed to dry naturally, the plumes hold their colour and shape, adding lasting interest and texture to bouquets and dried flower displays. Velvet Curtains thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, offering a dependable and showstopping presence from midsummer well into fall. Also known as Tassel Flower, this amaranth delivers bold beauty with a whisper of romance, perfect for gardeners and floral artists seeking drama and depth.

DETAILS:

QTY: 100

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: BARELY COVER

GERMINATION: 7 - 10 days at 21 - 24°C

HEIGHT: 24" - 30” Support may be necessary.

MATURITY: 65 - 75 Days

SPACING: 12 - 15”

PINCH: Yes

HOW TO GROW:

Transplanting (recommended): Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before your average last frost date. Barely cover the seeds with a fine layer of soil or vermiculite, as they require light to germinate. To avoid displacing them, bottom water or mist gently. Harden off seedlings by growing them at night temperatures of 17–18°C before transplanting outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Direct Seeding (alternative): Sow seeds outdoors after your last frost date. Sow seeds thinly and barely cover. Once seedlings have developed their first true leaves, thin them to a final spacing of 12–15" apart.

Pinching and Support: Pinching the tops of young plants will encourage a bushier habit and more blooms. Taller varieties may require staking or other support to prevent them from flopping over.

Soil Preference and Watering: Amaranthus thrives in full sun and tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers well-drained soil. It is a heat-loving and drought-tolerant plant once established, but will perform best with consistent moisture.

Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not typically necessary unless your soil is very poor. Over-fertilizing, especially with nitrogen, can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer flowers.

Harvesting: For bouquets, harvest amaranthus when the flowers are about three-quarters of the way open and the stems are firm. For drying, harvest when the flowers are fully developed and the seeds are set. Hang bunches of stems upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area until completely dry.