Gomphrena globosa Gnome Purple | Globe Amaranth Seeds

Gomphrena Gnome Purple is a dwarf globe amaranth with rich purple, globe-shaped flower heads that stand out against its dark green foliage. It branches from the base to form a neat, rounded mound about 20 cm tall, making it a good fit for sunny border edges, small pots and balcony boxes.

This heat-loving annual grows well in hot, humid summers and tolerates short dry spells once established. Plant several in a row along a path, or alternate them with Gnome White for a crisp purple-and-white border.

Plant Information

• Botanical name: Gomphrena globosa
• Common name: Globe amaranth
• Series: Gnome
• Variety: Purple
• Plant type: Annual
• Flower colour: Rich purple
• Flower head size: Approximately 1.2 cm across
• Height: Approximately 20 cm
• Spread: Approximately 10 cm
• Growth habit: Compact, rounded and well branched from the base
• Position: Full sun to light partial shade
• Soil: Well drained
• Seed form: Cleaned seed
• Days to bloom: Approximately 84 days (12 weeks) from sowing in a 10 cm pot under favourable conditions
• Uses: Border edging, small pots, balcony boxes and mixed containers

Sowing & Germination

Sow indoors, one seed per cell, in fine, well-drained seed compost. Cover with a thin layer of vermiculite and keep the compost evenly moist at around 25 °C. Seeds can begin to germinate in about 7 days under suitable conditions.

After emergence, move the seedlings to a bright, airy spot. They are usually ready to transplant about 5 weeks after sowing. Harden them off gradually and plant outdoors once the risk of frost has passed and the weather has warmed.

Growing & Care

Choose a warm, sunny spot for the best flowering. A 9–10.5 cm pot with drainage holes suits a single plant. Use a larger pot or balcony box if you’re combining it with other summer flowers.

Water regularly until the plants establish, then let the surface of the compost dry slightly between waterings. Check small pots more often in hot weather, as they dry out quickly.

Flowering

With enough warmth and light, Gnome Purple begins flowering about 12 weeks after sowing in a 10 cm pot. Cool weather or low light can delay flowering. Its low growth keeps the purple flower heads visible at the front of a border or mixed container.