Gomphrena Purple Seeds

About Gomphrena Purple Seeds

Gomphrena, the globe amaranth, bears papery, clover-like purple-magenta blooms that last for months on the plant and keep their colour even after drying. An easy, low-maintenance annual of 30–45 cm.

• Botanical name: Gomphrena globosa
• Care level: Easy
• Flower colour: Purple-magenta
• Plant height: 30–45 cm
• Flowering: Monsoon to winter (July–December).

Why grow it

• Extremely heat and drought tolerant
• Excellent dried flower — retains its colour
• Long-lasting blooms, low maintenance

How to Grow

1. Soak the seeds in water for 12 hours before sowing — it improves germination.
2. Fill a seedling tray or small container with a fine, clean, well-draining seed-starting mix.
3. Sow the seeds: about 5 mm deep. Soaking the seeds for 12 hours improves germination.
4. Water gently with a spray bottle and keep the medium moist, not waterlogged.
5. Under suitable conditions, sprouts usually appear in 10–15 days.
6. Transplant to the final pot or bed once the seedlings are sturdy, and grow on in full sun.

Light, water, soil and feeding

• Light: Full sun
• Water: Water when the soil dries out — it handles heat and dry spells very well.
• Soil: Well-drained ordinary garden soil.
• Temperature: 22–38°C.
• Fertiliser: A light monthly feed; heavy feeding is not needed.
• Pruning: Pinch the tips early for bushy plants; deadheading is optional.

Safety: Not known to be toxic.

Sowing season in India

February–March and June–July. Exact timing depends on your local temperature and conditions.

Common problems

• Slow germination: Pre-soak seeds for 12 hours and keep the medium warm and moist.
• Damping off in wet soil: Sow in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
• Occasional leaf spot: Remove affected leaves and maintain airflow.