How to Grow Rubylace Amaranth
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Rubylace Amaranth
Amaranthus tricolor 'Rubylace'
vegetableRubylace is a vibrant ornamental amaranth variety prized for its stunning deep red and ruby-colored foliage with contrasting green undersides. The plants produce edible leaves that are nutritious and colorful, making them both decorative and functional in the garden. This heat-loving annual grows quickly and adapts well to warm growing conditions.
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Example Rubylace Amaranth timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Rubylace 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 Rubylace Amaranth
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Rubylace Amaranth dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-11; best grown as an annual in cooler zones or year-round in warm climates
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Get my Rubylace Amaranth timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
5-10 daysTiny seedlings emerge with two small cotyledons (seed leaves). Seeds are very small and require consistent moisture.
Keep soil warm (70-80°F) and moist. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once they develop first true leaves. Provide bright light immediately to prevent stretching.
Early Vegetative Growth
2-3 weeksPlants develop their first true leaves, which begin showing hints of red coloration. Seedlings grow rapidly in warm conditions.
Maintain consistent moisture and warmth. Begin fertilizing with diluted liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Harden off transplants gradually before moving outdoors.
Foliage Development
3-4 weeksPlants expand significantly with increasingly deep ruby-red colored leaves becoming prominent. Stems may also develop reddish pigmentation. Plants are actively leafing out.
Continue regular watering and fertilizing. Pinch back growing tips if desired to encourage bushier growth and more leaf production. Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continued production.
Peak Foliage & Optional Flowering
2-4 weeksPlants reach full bushy form with stunning ruby-colored foliage. Tiny red or purple flowers may begin forming at stem tips if plants are left unharvested.
Continue harvesting leaves for best quality and to extend the vegetative stage. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer if seeds are desired. Monitor for pests in hot weather.
Seed Production (Optional)
3-4 weeksIf left unharvested, plants produce tall flower spikes with thousands of small seeds. Foliage may become coarser.
Allow plants to mature fully if collecting seeds. Seeds will ripen in 2-3 weeks after flowering. Cut flower spikes and dry completely before extracting seeds.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap in severe cases. Increase humidity to discourage infestation.
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Use row covers on young plants; apply diatomaceous earth or neem oil. Reduce nitrogen to make plants less attractive.
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Ensure good air circulation; water at soil level only. Remove affected leaves; apply fungicide if severe. Avoid overhead watering.
Uses
Leafy Green Vegetable
CulinaryRubylace leaves are edible and nutritious, with a mild, slightly nutty flavor. They can be eaten raw in salads for visual appeal or cooked like spinach; cooking reduces the oxalic acid content and creates a tender texture. The vibrant color makes any dish visually striking. [source]
Seeds for Grain & Cooking
CulinaryAmaranth seeds are a complete protein containing all essential amino acids, making them valuable as a grain substitute or addition to other grains. Seeds can be popped like popcorn, ground into flour, or cooked as a porridge. [source]
Nutritional Supplement
MedicinalRubylace amaranth is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium, magnesium, and manganese. Traditionally used to support overall health and provide bioavailable micronutrients. [source]
Natural Food Dye
HouseholdThe deep red and ruby pigments in Rubylace leaves come from betalains and anthocyanins, which can be extracted and used as a natural dye for fabrics or food coloring. [source]
Garden Ornament & Floral Arrangement
OrnamentalThe stunning foliage makes Rubylace an excellent ornamental plant for borders, containers, or focal points in vegetable gardens. Flower spikes can be used in dried arrangements. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting outer leaves once plants are 6-8 inches tall, typically 4-5 weeks after planting. Pinch off leaves from the outside inward, allowing the center to continue growing. Harvest in early morning for best texture and nutrient content. Leaves are most tender and best colored when young; older leaves become tougher. Can harvest continuously throughout the season. For seed saving, allow a few plants to mature fully and produce seed spikes; harvest when they turn brown and dry.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Amaranth has been cultivated for over 8,000 years and was a staple crop of the Aztecs, who called it 'huauhtli.' It was so important that it was used in religious ceremonies.
- 🌱 The name 'Rubylace' perfectly describes the plant's appearance: the deep crimson and ruby-colored leaves with bright green undersides create an intricate, lace-like pattern when backlit by the sun.
- 🌱 Amaranth is one of the few plants that can thrive in poor soil conditions and extreme heat, making it an excellent choice for drought-prone regions or challenging garden spaces.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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