Mexican globe amaranth
gomphrena haageana
Also known as: ["Hopi corn flower","button flower"]
Overview
A compact annual plant known for its globe-shaped, papery flowers that resemble miniature clover heads, typically in shades of orange, yellow, or white.
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 haageana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun, or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- 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 works 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 flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly to avoid leggy growth; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late 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 may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag if needed.
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; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; 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 appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid waterlogging by ensuring proper drainage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in cold; leaf scorch or bud drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stunted growth, leaf drop, and potential death if exposed to prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during cold spells; use frost cloth for in-ground plants; ensure good drainage to prevent cold soil.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering if exposed to extreme heat without adequate water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
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 haageana is not known to be toxic to cats under normal conditions of exposure or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicGomphrena haageana is not known to be toxic to dogs under normal conditions of exposure or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicGomphrena haageana is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal conditions of exposure or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Gomphrena haageana?
A: Propagate by seed sowing directly into the garden after the last frost or starting indoors 6-8 weeks before transplanting.
Q: Does Gomphrena haageana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Gomphrena haageana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it thrives in containers as long as they have good drainage and are placed in full sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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