Amaranth Elephant Head

Description

Amaranthus gangeticus

OP heirloom from Europe dating back to the 1880s. Grows to 2-5 feet tall and produces a large, maroon/red flower stalk that looks like an upraised elephant’s trunk.  This species is not suitable as a grain crop. 75 days

Sowing: Sow 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Barely cover the seed. Bottom water or mist to avoid covering seeds with displaced soil. Harden off by growing at 62-65°F (17-18°C) and transplant outside after the last frost. Direct sow: After the last frost, sow thinly, barely covering the seed. When seedlings have first true leaves, thin to 12-15″ apart.