How to Grow Burgundy Giant
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Burgundy Giant
Amaranthus cruentus
vegetableBurgundy Giant is a striking ornamental amaranth variety featuring deep burgundy-red foliage and dense, plume-like flower heads. It serves dual purposes as both an attractive garden plant and a nutritious leafy green vegetable with edible leaves and seeds. This heat-loving annual grows tall and dramatic, making a bold statement in any garden.
When should you plant Burgundy Giant in your zone?
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Example Burgundy Giant timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Burgundy Giant
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 Giant
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Burgundy Giant dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-11; prefers warm conditions and performs best in zones 5-10
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Get my Burgundy Giant timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
7-14 daysTiny seedlings emerge with small cotyledons and first true leaves. Very delicate at this stage. Plants are small and vulnerable.
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Thin seedlings to proper spacing when 2-3 inches tall. Provide bright light. Keep soil warm (70-75°F ideal).
Vegetative/Leaf Development
3-4 weeksRapid growth of stems and burgundy foliage. Plants develop their characteristic deep red coloring in leaves and stems. Height increases steadily.
Thin to final spacing. Ensure consistent watering and full sun exposure for color development. Begin harvesting outer leaves when plants are 6-8 inches tall if desired. Side-dress with compost or balanced fertilizer.
Flower/Inflorescence Development
2-3 weeksDense, plume-like flower heads (panicles) begin to form at the top of the plant. Flower colors match or deepen the burgundy foliage. Plant reaches near-maximum height.
Continue regular watering. Support tall plants with stakes if needed in windy locations. Continue leaf harvesting if desired, though production may slow. Fertilize moderately to support flowering.
Flowering & Seed Production
3-4 weeksFull, impressive plume-like panicles in deep burgundy-red dominate the plant. Tiny flowers produce prolific seeds within the flower heads. Plant reaches maximum height (3-6 feet).
Reduce nitrogen to encourage seed production over foliage. Allow some flower heads to mature on the plant for seed collection. Continue watering during dry spells. Stake if needed for support.
Seed Maturity & Harvest
2-3 weeksFlower heads dry and harden. Seeds become dark, glossy, and hard. Foliage may begin to fade as plant dedicates energy to seed production.
Stop watering once seeds mature. Allow plants to dry on the stem or cut flower heads and hang-dry indoors. Seeds are ready when flower heads crumble easily to release seeds. Store dry seeds in cool, dry place.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream to dislodge. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Increase humidity and water foliage in early morning. Use neem oil or miticide if infestations are heavy. Ensure good air circulation.
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Hand-pick larger beetles. Use row covers on young plants. Apply neem oil or pyrethrin-based insecticides if needed.
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Hand-pick visible caterpillars. Use Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray for organic control. Keep plants healthy with proper care.
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Ensure excellent drainage and avoid overwatering, especially in seedling stage. Use sterile seed-starting mix. Improve air circulation.
Uses
Nutritious Leafy Green
CulinaryYoung Burgundy Giant leaves are edible and highly nutritious, rich in proteins, minerals, and vitamins. They can be steamed, sautéed, or added raw to salads for a mild, slightly nutty flavor with striking burgundy coloring. [source]
Grain & Seed Harvest
CulinaryAmaranth seeds are a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids and can be popped like popcorn, ground into flour, or cooked as a grain. The seeds provide nutritional value comparable to quinoa. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalAmaranth leaves and seeds have been used in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation, support digestion, and boost overall nutrition. The plant is valued in various cultural traditions for promoting health and vitality. [source]
Natural Dye Production
HouseholdThe deep burgundy pigments in Burgundy Giant leaves and stems can be extracted and used as a natural dye for textiles and craft projects. The resulting colors range from purple to deep red depending on mordant used. [source]
Ornamental & Dried Arrangements
CraftThe dramatic burgundy plumes are stunning in fresh arrangements and dry beautifully for long-lasting dried flower and seedhead displays. They add striking color and texture to gardens and indoor floral designs. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For tender leaves: Harvest outer leaves when plants are 6-8 inches tall; continue harvesting throughout growing season, leaving central growing point intact. For maximum leaf production, harvest before flowering begins. For seeds: Allow flower heads to fully mature and dry on the plant or cut and hang-dry indoors. Thresh dried heads over a clean surface to release seeds. Seeds are ready when they fall freely from the panicle. Harvest in late summer/early fall before frost.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Burgundy Giant amaranth is native to South America and Africa and has been cultivated for over 8,000 years as both food and ornamental plant. Aztecs valued amaranth as a staple crop.
- 🌱 Amaranth seeds are so small that a single plant can produce up to 60,000 seeds, making them incredibly prolific and valuable for seed saving.
- 🌱 The entire plant is edible—leaves, seeds, and flower heads—making it one of the most productive edible plants for both nutrition and biomass per square foot.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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