Hopi Red Dye – Organic Amaranthus Seed

Dark red amaranth with graceful, easy to use spikes.
Rich color and arching lines for a nice bouquet accent. Humble but sturdy blooms do not dominate arrangements, as is often the case with other amaranth varieties. Compared to the upright types, Hopi Red Dye’s flower heads are smaller, about 1-2" wide and 12-24" long. Shorter and smaller blooms than trailing types. When plants are young, and leaves are tender, the foliage makes a nice edible green. Seeds are also edible. Fresh flower clusters, stems, and leaves can be used to make a natural red food dye by soaking the plant parts in water overnight or simmering in hot water. Organically grown. Ht. 40-48". Avg. 48,400 seeds/oz. Packet: 100 seeds.

DAYS TO GERMINATION: 7-10 days at 70-75°F (21-24°C).

SOWING: Support may be necessary.
Transplant: Sow 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Barely cover 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 last frost.
Direct seed: After last frost, sow thinly, barely covering the seed. When seedlings have first true leaves, thin to 12-15" apart.

LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Well-drained soil.

PLANT SPACING: 12-15". For upright, plume type, thinner and more manageable stems can be achieved using a tighter spacing of 3-6".

HARDINESS ZONES: Annual.

HARVEST: Fresh: Harvest when at least 3/4 of the flowers on the inflorescence are open.
Dried: Harvest when seed has begun to set and flowers feel firm to the touch. To dry, hang nontrailing varieties upside down. Stand trailing varieties upright in a bucket or other tall container to maintain the draped appearance.

USES: Fresh or dried cut flower, back of bed, accent in borders, and containers.

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Amaranthus spp.