How to Grow Tricolor Amaranthus (Elephant Head)
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Tricolor Amaranthus (Elephant Head)
Amaranthus tricolor
flowerA striking ornamental plant featuring dramatic foliage with deep red, yellow, and green coloring arranged in bold patterns. The leaves can reach 12 inches long and resemble an elephant's ear or head, hence the common name. It's grown primarily for its spectacular foliage rather than its small flowers, making it a bold accent plant in gardens and containers.
When should you plant Tricolor Amaranthus (Elephant Head) in your zone?
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Example Tricolor Amaranthus (Elephant Head) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Tricolor Amaranthus (Elephant Head)
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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First Tricolor Amaranthus (Elephant Head) blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives as an annual in zones 2-11; perennial in zones 10-11. Best color development in warm zones 7-10.
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Get my Tricolor Amaranthus (Elephant Head) timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny green seedlings with 2-4 true leaves. Very delicate and vulnerable to damping off.
Maintain warm soil (75-80°F), high humidity, and bright light. Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost. Water gently from below to avoid fungal issues. Thin seedlings to prevent crowding.
Early Vegetative
3-4 weeksYoung plants develop 6-10 leaves with emerging color patterns. Base foliage shows red and yellow undertones beginning to appear.
Harden off transplants over 7-10 days before planting outdoors. Transplant after all frost danger passes and soil temps reach 60°F+. Space 12 inches apart. Begin light fertilizing with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Mid Vegetative (Color Development)
4-6 weeksRapid leaf growth with dramatic color patterns intensifying. Plants reach 2-3 feet tall. Red, yellow, and green variegation becomes prominent. Leaves become larger and more impressive.
Maintain consistent moisture and warmth. Fertilize every 2 weeks with balanced or slightly higher nitrogen formula to encourage foliage. Pinch back growing tips if bushier form is desired. Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Peak Display & Flowering
4-8 weeks or until frostFull-size plant with spectacular foliage display (2-4 feet tall and wide depending on variety). Small, densely-packed flower spikes emerge above foliage in red, yellow, or orange colors. Foliage colors are at maximum intensity.
Continue regular watering and monthly fertilizing. Deadhead flower spikes if focused on foliage display, or leave for extended ornamental interest. Colors may fade slightly in peak summer heat (zones 9-10); this is normal. Continue to monitor for pests.
Decline & End of Season
2-4 weeks or until frost eventAs temperatures cool or frost approaches, foliage color may intensify further (reds deepen) before plant deteriorates. Frost kills tender growth.
Collect seeds from mature seed heads if desired (allow some flowers to fully mature and dry on plant). Pull plant after hard frost. In frost-free zones, cut back in late fall to encourage renewed growth, or allow to self-seed for next season.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water spray; use neem oil or insecticidal soap. Increase humidity. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Spray with water or insecticidal soap. Use neem oil if severe. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Yellow sticky traps for monitoring and control. Spray undersides of leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
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Hand-pick if population is small. Use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray for organic control. Remove weeds that harbor pests.
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and
Maintain adequate spacing for air circulation. Use neem oil or horticultural oil. Keep foliage dry by watering at base.
Uses
Edible Greens
CulinaryYoung leaves and growing tips are edible with a mild, spinach-like flavor. Rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. Can be lightly steamed, sautéed, or added to salads. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
HouseholdThe dramatic variegated foliage and colorful flower spikes make stunning fresh or dried arrangements. Stems last 1-2 weeks in water and dry beautifully for long-term displays. [source]
Dried Flowers & Crafts
CraftFlower spikes dry exceptionally well and retain color for months, making them ideal for dried arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. Hang dry upside-down in a cool, dry location. [source]
Seed Source for Birds
WildlifeMature seed heads attract finches and other seed-eating birds. Leaving plants standing late into fall provides natural wildlife food source. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalAmaranth leaf extracts have been used traditionally in various cultures for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Modern research explores potential health benefits of amaranth polyphenols. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Tricolor Amaranthus is grown for foliage and ornamental display rather than harvest. Cut stems for floral arrangements once color is fully developed (after 70+ days). Peak color typically appears 8-10 weeks after planting. Seeds mature in late summer/early fall; collect dried seed heads for propagation or allow self-seeding. For edible amaranth leaves, harvest young tender leaves throughout growing season by pinching off top 3-4 inches of stems.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Amaranthus tricolor originates from India and Southeast Asia, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years both as a food crop and ornamental plant. The name 'tricolor' refers to the three-color foliage pattern.
- 🌱 The plant produces prolific amounts of tiny seeds—a single plant can produce over 100,000 seeds, which is why it's so easy to self-seed and can become naturalized in warm climates.
- 🌱 Despite being an annual in most climates, Tricolor Amaranthus was historically used as a staple grain crop in Mesoamerica (Aztec times) and remains important in African and Asian cuisine for its nutrient-dense seeds and leaves.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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