Love-Lies-Bleeding
amaranthus caudatus
Also known as: ["Tassel Flower","Hanging Amaranth"]
Overview
A striking annual plant known for its long, drooping inflorescences of bright red or purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Amaranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Amaranthus caudatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically after flowering or when plants become leggy.
- 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; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile garden loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in heat but can tolerate mild frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning roots; apply to moist soil to prevent nutrient shock; avoid fertilizing newly transplanted or stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; seeds are the most common and reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth.
- Transplant once seedlings are established.
- For cuttings, take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, and place in moist medium.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; optional for stem cuttings to encourage rooting.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 7–14 days; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, well-draining mix, misting bottle, heating mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use bottom heat for faster germination; thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding; use clean tools to avoid disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth; trim spent flower stalks to promote new blooms.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or your fingers for small stems.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or diseased parts; make cuts just above a leaf node; dispose of pruned material properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
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 annually or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
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 discoloration (yellowing or browning), stunted growth, or flower drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to frost.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, or premature seed set in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply to soil, not foliage; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAmaranthus caudatus is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to feline health when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAmaranthus caudatus is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause significant health issues when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAmaranthus caudatus, commonly known as love-lies-bleeding, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is often used in culinary applications and ornamental displays without adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Amaranthus caudatus edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and seeds are edible and have been used as a grain-like crop in some cultures.
Q: How tall does Amaranthus caudatus grow?
A: It typically grows to 2–3 feet tall, with some varieties reaching up to 5 feet.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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