How to Grow Burgundy Amaranth
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Burgundy Amaranth
Amaranthus cruentus
vegetableBurgundy Amaranth is a striking ornamental and edible grain amaranth with deep burgundy-red foliage and grain heads. It produces abundant nutritious seeds and tender leaves that can be eaten cooked like spinach, while the dramatic coloring makes it an attractive addition to any garden. This heat-loving annual thrives in warm conditions and is highly productive.
When should you plant Burgundy Amaranth in your zone?
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Example Burgundy Amaranth timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Burgundy Amaranth
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Burgundy Amaranth
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Burgundy Amaranth dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-10; grows as annual in cooler zones 3-4
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with two rounded cotyledons; foliage begins showing burgundy pigmentation within 1-2 weeks.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once true leaves appear. Provide bright light to prevent leggy growth.
Vegetative
3-4 weeksPlant develops multiple true leaves; deep burgundy coloring becomes prominent in both stems and foliage. Rapid leaf and stem growth occurs.
Maintain consistent watering. Apply light balanced fertilizer (5-5-5) every 3-4 weeks. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Remove any weak or diseased leaves.
Flowering & Grain Head Formation
2-3 weeksTerminal flower spikes emerge at top of plant; side panicles develop along stems. Burgundy grain heads form and begin to swell with developing seeds.
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive leaf growth at expense of grain. Maintain steady moisture. Support tall varieties with stakes if needed in windy areas.
Grain Maturation
2-3 weeksGrain heads darken and harden; seeds develop glossy appearance with deep burgundy color. Foliage may begin to yellow slightly.
Reduce watering gradually as seeds mature. Do not fertilize at this stage. Watch for pest activity on ripening grain heads.
Harvest Ready
Ready to harvestGrain heads are fully hardened; seeds do not rub off easily when gently squeezed. Plant may dry down; foliage color remains vibrant burgundy.
Stop watering. Allow plants to dry in field if weather permits. Harvest when seeds are hard and difficult to remove by hand.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick infected leaves; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators like parasitic wasps
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Use row covers on seedlings; apply kaolin clay spray; encourage beneficial insects; avoid excessive nitrogen
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Create paper or foil collars around seedling stems; handpick at dusk; apply diatomaceous earth around base of plants
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Spray strong water stream to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap; attract natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings
Uses
Grain & Seed Flour
CulinarySeeds can be popped like popcorn, ground into nutritious gluten-free flour, or cooked whole as a grain. Amaranth grain is high in protein and contains all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. [source]
Cooked Greens
CulinaryYoung leaves and tender growth can be cooked and eaten like spinach with a mild, slightly earthy flavor. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, particularly high in calcium and iron. [source]
Nutritional Supplement
MedicinalAmaranth seeds are used traditionally and in modern herbalism to support blood health and provide complete protein nutrition. The leaves contain compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Natural Dye
HouseholdThe deep burgundy pigments in foliage and seeds can be extracted to create natural fabric dyes, producing rich red and burgundy tones. [source]
Bird Food
WildlifeLeaving mature grain heads on plants provides seeds for wild birds throughout fall and winter, supporting local wildlife populations. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest grain when heads are completely dry and seeds are hard (typically 100+ days). Cut entire grain heads when seeds are firmly attached and don't easily rub off. Dry heads further indoors for 1-2 weeks, then thresh by rubbing heads between hands over a large bowl to separate seeds. Winnow in breeze to remove chaff. For leaves, harvest tender young growth continuously once plants are 6+ inches tall, or wait until flowering stage for maximum leaf yield. Young leaves are milder and more tender than mature foliage.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Burgundy Amaranth was a staple grain of the Aztecs and other pre-Columbian cultures, where it was revered for both nutrition and ceremonial significance.
- 🌱 Despite being called a grain, amaranth is technically a pseudo-grain or seed crop, making it naturally gluten-free and easier to digest for many people than true grains.
- 🌱 The deep burgundy pigmentation comes from betalain pigments, the same compounds that give beets their color, which are rare in plants and have strong antioxidant properties.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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