Sawtooth Globe Amaranth
gomphrena serrata
Also known as: ["Sawtooth Globe Amaranth"]
Overview
A vibrant, drought-tolerant annual with clover-like flower heads that retain color long after drying.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Gomphrena |
| Botanical Name: | Gomphrena serrata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun or container in a sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; deadheading spent flowers as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense midday sun indoors; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in full sun but may require shade in extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when blooms appear to encourage flowering; use a low-nitrogen formula for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity until roots form; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove dead or damaged stems; deadhead spent flowers to promote new blooms.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose the right pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or yellowing leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Gomphrena is sensitive to cold; temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause stunted growth or death.
Solution: Protect from frost; move potted plants indoors during cold spells; use row covers for garden plants.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, flower drop, or leaf scorch, especially in combination with low water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGomphrena serrata is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicGomphrena serrata is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicGomphrena serrata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Gomphrena serrata edible?
A: While generally non-toxic, it is not commonly consumed as food.
Q: How do I propagate Gomphrena serrata?
A: Propagate by seed sown directly in well-drained soil after the last frost.
Q: Does Gomphrena serrata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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