Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
Amaranth Seeds - Coral Fountain offers a striking addition to your garden with its cascading plumes of coral-pink flowers. This annual plant typically reaches a height of 3 to 5 feet, creating an impressive vertical display. Known for its vigorous growth, Coral Fountain thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a resilient choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. With a maturity period of approximately 60 to 90 days, this amaranth variety provides a vibrant and long-lasting floral presence throughout the growing season.
The flowers of Coral Fountain are not just visually appealing but also versatile. Their unique texture and color make them ideal for fresh or dried arrangements, adding an exotic touch to bouquets and floral displays. As the season progresses, the blooms maintain their vivid hue, ensuring a continuous spectacle in your garden or home. The plant's robust nature and eye-catching appearance make it a standout choice for ornamental purposes.
In addition to its ornamental value, Coral Fountain amaranth can be used in culinary applications. The young leaves are edible and can be harvested for use in salads or as a nutritious green, offering a mild, spinach-like flavor. This dual-purpose plant not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your garden but also contributes to your kitchen, providing a sustainable and attractive option for those looking to incorporate beauty and utility into their gardening endeavors.
How to Sow and Transplant Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.)
1. Sowing Seeds
Timing:
Sow amaranth seeds directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, or start indoors 4–6 weeks before your last frost date for earlier blooms or harvests. Soil must be warm—at least 60°F (16°C)—for reliable germination.
Soil Preparation:
Work compost or aged manure into the top 6–8 inches of soil before sowing. Amaranth thrives in well-drained loam or sandy loam with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Avoid heavy, wet soils.
Sowing Depth:
Seeds are tiny—sow only ⅛ inch deep or press gently into the soil surface and lightly cover with fine soil or vermiculite.
Spacing:
After germination, thin or transplant seedlings to:
10–12 inches apart for leafy types (A. tricolor)
12–18 inches apart for ornamental or grain types (A. caudatus and A. cruentus)
Space rows 18–30 inches apart depending on variety size.
Germination Conditions:
Keep soil evenly moist until seedlings emerge, usually within 5–10 days at 70–85°F (21–29°C). Avoid crusting or oversaturation, which can smother seedlings.
2. Transplanting Seedlings
Timing:
Transplant only after all frost danger has passed, when both soil and air are consistently warm. Young amaranth is sensitive to cold and will not recover from frost damage.
Handling:
Amaranth seedlings are delicate—transplant by the root ball, not by the stem. Water the soil before removing them from trays to reduce transplant shock.
Planting Depth:
Set plants at the same depth they grew in their pots. Do not bury stems. Gently firm the soil and water well after planting.
Hardening Off:
Before transplanting outdoors, harden off for 5–7 days by gradually introducing seedlings to direct sunlight and outdoor airflow. Begin with a few hours daily, increasing exposure over the week.
Initial Watering:
Water deeply after transplanting to settle roots. Keep soil evenly moist but not saturated during the first 7–10 days while plants reestablish.
3. Early Care After Transplanting
Temperature: Optimal range is 70–90°F (21–32°C); amaranth stops growing below 60°F (16°C).
Watering: Maintain consistent moisture until roots are established; afterward, water deeply once or twice per week.
Mulching: Apply a light layer of straw or shredded leaves around plants to retain moisture and reduce weed pressure.
How to Grow — Coral Fountain Amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus)
Seed Starting & Transplant Timing
Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost, or direct sow once soil has warmed above 60°F (16°C). Coral Fountain performs best in warm, sunny conditions with consistent moisture during early growth.
Germination range: 70–80°F (21–27°C); emergence in 5–10 Days. Use a heat mat for uniform germination and mist lightly—seeds need light to sprout, so sow shallowly (⅛ inch or less).
Lighting: Provide 14–16 hours/day of bright light under LEDs or fluorescents. Keep lights 2–4 inches above seedlings and rotate trays regularly for upright stems.
First feed & pot-up: Begin feeding with a diluted organic fertilizer (¼-strength) once the first true leaves appear. Pot up to 3–4 inch containers when roots fill starter cells.
Harden off: Transition seedlings outdoors gradually over 5–7 days. Transplant when nights stay above 55°F (13°C) and days exceed 70°F (21°C).
Soil Preparation
Texture & pH: Well-drained loam or sandy loam with pH 6.0–7.5. Avoid compacted or waterlogged soils, which cause weak growth.
Amendments: Work in 2 inches of compost or well-rotted manure before planting. For long, drooping tassels, lightly supplement with bone meal or kelp meal to support phosphorus and potassium levels.
Bed setup: Raised beds or wide rows improve drainage and airflow, critical for preventing root rot in humid climates.
Watering
Water deeply once or twice weekly, providing about 1 inch per week. Amaranth tolerates short dry periods but grows best with steady moisture.
Method: Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to water at soil level, avoiding splashing on leaves.
Tip: Allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings to strengthen roots and reduce fungal issues.
Fertilizing
Early growth: Apply a balanced fertilizer (5-5-5) or compost tea every 2–3 weeks until plants begin flowering.
Maturity phase: Switch to a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer once plumes form to enhance color and seed quality.
Caution: Avoid high nitrogen levels—excess foliage growth can shorten or pale the tassels.
Weeding & Mulching
Keep young plants weed-free, as early competition can slow growth.
Mulch: Apply a 2–3 inch organic mulch (straw or shredded leaves) after soil warms to maintain moisture and suppress weeds.
Hand-weeding: Be gentle—amaranth has shallow roots easily disturbed by aggressive cultivation.
Sun & Heat Management
Full sun (6–8+ hours daily) is crucial for bold coral coloration and vigorous flowering.
Temperature tolerance: Thrives in heat, tolerating temperatures up to 100°F (38°C) with adequate moisture.
Heat management: In extremely hot or dry conditions, provide light afternoon shade and mulch heavily to maintain soil temperature.
Spacing & Support
Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows 24–30 inches apart. Coral Fountain produces tall, arching plumes that benefit from room to cascade freely.
Support: Stake plants if grown in windy or exposed areas; tassels can become heavy and bend stems.
Companion Planting
Good companions: Corn, sunflowers, and basil—each supports beneficial insect activity and creates visual harmony in garden designs.
Avoid: Dense or water-demanding crops like squash or cucumbers, which compete for soil moisture and light.
Pollinator note: Flowers attract bees, hoverflies, and small native pollinators that benefit nearby vegetables.
Container Growing
Grow in large containers (10–15 gallons) with rich, free-draining potting mix.
Watering: Check daily during peak heat; water deeply when the top inch of soil dries out.
Tip: Use fabric pots to improve root aeration and prevent overheating of roots on patios or decks.
Pruning & Training
Pinch early tips at 10–12 inches tall to encourage branching and multiple plumes.
Maintenance: Remove yellowing leaves and side shoots to maintain airflow and visual balance. Avoid cutting too heavily midseason, as this can delay flowering.
Season Extension
Amaranth is frost-sensitive. Use row covers or low tunnels early in spring or late in fall to extend the harvest window.
Autumn finish: Harvest plumes before frost for drying or seed. Hang indoors in a shaded, breezy spot to preserve coral hue and seed quality.
Harvest & Seed Saving
Harvest: Cut plumes when fully colored and before seeds begin to drop. For seed, allow flower heads to dry on the plant until the base turns golden.
Cut, don’t pull: Use shears to avoid damaging stems or neighboring plants.
Seed saving: Hang seed heads 10–14 days to dry, then thresh and winnow carefully.
Isolation: Maintain 500 feet between A. caudatus varieties to preserve unique Coral Fountain traits.
Stage options: Harvest as ornamental plumes when tassels are 18–24 inches long and fully colored, or allow to mature 90–120 Days for grain. Young leaves can also be picked 4–6 weeks after germination for tender greens.
Cut cleanly: Use sharp pruners to remove tassels at the base of their stems. Avoid tugging, as heavy flower heads can tear the stalk or cause lodging in adjacent plants.
Production rhythm: Regular cutting encourages side branching and additional plumes. For seed production, allow several heads to mature on the plant until the lowest flowers begin drying.
Drying prep: Hang tassels upside down in a shaded, ventilated space for 7–14 days. Once crisp, gently shake or rub the seed heads over a tray to release seeds.
Flavor & Nutrition
Profile: Leaves are mild and slightly nutty when cooked, while seeds possess a delicate sweetness with faintly grassy undertones.
Nutrition: Packed with calcium, iron, vitamin C, and complete protein. Seeds are gluten-free and high in lysine and magnesium.
Flavor balance: Fresh leaves resemble young spinach in texture but with a deeper, earthier flavor. Toasted seeds develop warm, nut-like notes ideal for cereals or baked goods.
Handling
Harvest timing: Pick greens early in the morning for best tenderness. For ornamental use, cut tassels before seed maturity for stronger color retention.
Processing seeds: After drying, winnow the seed using gentle airflow or a fan. Store only when fully dry to avoid spoilage.
Gloves optional: The plant is safe to handle, though the flower bracts can be mildly abrasive—gloves are recommended for extended harvesting sessions.
Storage & Preservation
Fresh leaves: Store in the refrigerator unwashed, wrapped loosely in a paper towel inside a perforated bag. Use within a week.
Drying leaves: Dehydrate at 115°F (46°C) until brittle, then crumble and store as a nutrient-rich tea or soup additive.
Seeds: Keep completely dry in airtight containers away from light. Stored properly, they remain viable for up to 5 years.
Ornamental drying: Hang tassels upside down in a shaded area with good airflow. The coral color deepens as they dry and lasts for months in arrangements.
Kitchen Use
Cooking greens: Sauté with garlic, olive oil, or soy sauce for a tender, mineral-rich dish. Also suitable for soups and stir-fries.
Grain preparation: Boil 1 part seed to 3 parts water for about 20 minutes, or pop seeds in a hot, dry pan for a crunchy garnish.
Decorative use: Dried tassels make excellent additions to wreaths, vases, and hanging arrangements, complementing both rustic and elegant décor.
Pairings: Combines well with beans, tomatoes, squash, corn, and light citrus or vinegar dressings.
Growing & Pruning Tips
Regional adaptation: Thrives in warm, sunny climates with well-drained loam or sandy soil. Tolerates heat and moderate drought once established.
Support: Staking may be necessary in windy conditions to prevent heavy plumes from bending stems.
Airflow: Space plants 12–18 inches apart for proper circulation. Thin seedlings early to prevent mildew.
Fertility: Moderate compost enrichment is best; excessive nitrogen leads to tall plants with fewer tassels.
Containers & Watering
Pot size: Use 10–15 gallon containers to support tall growth. Ensure drainage holes are unobstructed.
Water needs: Water deeply once or twice per week. Avoid shallow, frequent watering, which encourages weak root systems.
Mulch: Apply organic mulch after soil warms to retain moisture and stabilize soil temperature.
Companion Planting & Pollinators
Allies: Corn, sunflowers, and basil make ideal companions, attracting bees and stabilizing microclimates.
Pollinator support: Coral Fountain is an excellent nectar source for bees, butterflies, and hoverflies.
Avoid: Overcrowding with tall crops that block sun, as shading diminishes tassel size and color intensity.
Seed Saving
True-to-type: Choose plants with long, deeply colored tassels for saving. Avoid hybrids nearby to preserve the Coral Fountain trait.
Isolation: Separate from other A. caudatus by at least 500 feet to maintain purity.
Dry thoroughly: Hang seed heads for 10–14 days, then gently thresh and winnow to remove chaff.
Storage: Store seeds in airtight jars in a cool, dark, and dry location. Viable for 4–5 years under proper conditions.
Common Pests & Problems — Coral Fountain Amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus)
Insects & Mites
Aphids (curling leaves, sticky residue, and black sooty mold on foliage)
Controls: Wash colonies from stems and tassels using a strong jet of water. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days until controlled. Eliminate nearby ant nests that protect aphids and encourage predators by interplanting with dill, fennel, or sweet alyssum.
Flea beetles (tiny shot-holes in young leaves, stunted seedlings)
Controls: Protect seedlings with floating row covers until well established. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around plant bases and use trap crops like radish or mustard to draw pests away. Keep surrounding beds weed-free.
Spider mites (fine webbing, speckled leaves, and bronzing under hot, dry weather)
Controls: Raise humidity with mulch and consistent watering. Rinse undersides of leaves and tassels weekly. Rotate neem oil and horticultural oil sprays. Predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis are effective in greenhouse settings.
Leaf miners (whitish tunnels between leaf layers)
Controls: Remove damaged leaves early. Encourage parasitic wasps with nectar plants like calendula and marigold. Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides that kill beneficial species.
Thrips (twisted leaf tips, silvery patches, possible virus spread)
Controls: Use blue sticky traps to monitor and reduce populations. Remove weeds and spent blooms nearby. Apply insecticidal soap or spinosad at labeled rates. Avoid mowing flowering weeds near beds during bloom.
Caterpillars / Armyworms (chewed foliage, frass pellets, ragged edges on tassels)
Controls: Inspect daily, handpick larvae, and apply Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Bt) when caterpillars are small. Keep field edges mowed to reduce egg-laying sites.
Cutworms (young plants severed at the base during nighttime feeding)
Controls: Surround stems with cardboard collars at planting. Remove nearby grass clippings and mulch where larvae hide. Scout at dusk and handpick visible cutworms.
Diseases
Downy mildew (yellow blotches and grayish growth on undersides of leaves)
Prevention: Provide excellent airflow, water early in the day, and avoid overhead irrigation.
Management: Remove affected leaves, apply biofungicide or copper sprays preventively during humid periods.
Leaf spot (Cercospora, Alternaria) (brown or purple lesions, leaf drop)
Prevention: Use clean seed and rotate every 3–4 years. Avoid dense plantings and prolonged leaf wetness.
Management: Remove diseased debris; apply neem or copper sprays at first symptoms.
Powdery mildew (white coating on leaf surfaces late in season)
Prevention: Ensure spacing and sunlight penetration. Avoid high nitrogen fertilization.
Management: Prune to improve airflow and treat with potassium bicarbonate or sulfur-based biofungicides.
Root rot / damping-off (seedling collapse at soil line, poor germination)
Prevention: Use warm, well-drained soil; avoid overwatering and cold conditions.
Management: Start seedlings in sterilized medium; discard infected plants immediately.
Rust (orange or brown pustules beneath leaves)
Prevention: Avoid splashing water and excessive humidity.
Management: Remove infected leaves; treat preventively with neem or copper sprays.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Heat stress (wilting or leaf curl during high heat)
Fix: Mulch to cool soil and retain moisture. Light afternoon shade helps protect foliage and tassels during extreme temperatures.
Nutrient imbalance (excess nitrogen causing tall, weak growth and pale tassels)
Fix: Use balanced, moderate feeding. Overfertilization weakens stems and reduces bloom density.
Water stress (drooping or crispy leaves from inconsistent watering)
Fix: Maintain steady moisture, especially during flowering and seed set. Avoid drought followed by heavy irrigation.
Lodging (toppling stems)
Cause: Overwatering, wind exposure, or nitrogen excess.
Fix: Moderate feeding, deep watering at intervals, and staking if plants grow in windy areas.
Sunscald (bleached patches on tassels exposed to harsh afternoon sun)
Fix: Maintain adequate leaf canopy; avoid heavy pruning or defoliation that exposes tassels directly to midday light.
Monitoring & Prevention Checklist
Inspect undersides of leaves and tassels weekly for aphids, mites, or thrips.
Water at soil level in morning hours; mulch once soil warms.
Keep plant spacing open for airflow and drying.
Rotate Amaranthus crops at least every 3 years.
Remove and destroy diseased leaves; do not compost infected material.
Encourage beneficial insects with flowering companion plants.
Maintain steady soil moisture and balanced fertility for healthy, resilient growth.
Q: How tall does Coral Fountain Amaranth grow?
Usually 4–6 feet tall with a strong central stem. Its coral-pink tassels can drape 18–24 inches, creating a cascading fountain-like form.
Q: How long does it take to mature?
Around 90–120 Days from sowing. The plant develops full flowering heads in midsummer and sets seed through early autumn.
Q: How long does germination take?
7–10 Days at warm temperatures (70–85°F). Consistent heat and light soil promote even emergence.
Q: What soil type is best for Coral Fountain?
Sandy loam or loamy soil enriched with organic matter. It prefers well-drained ground and thrives even in moderately dry conditions once established.
Q: How much sunlight does it need?
Full sun—at least 6 hours daily. Partial shade reduces tassel size and color vibrancy.
Q: How far apart should plants be spaced?
12–18 inches between plants, 24–30 inches between rows. Proper spacing ensures airflow and supports long, arching tassels.
Q: Can Coral Fountain Amaranth be grown in pots or containers?
Yes. Choose deep containers (10–15 gallons) with nutrient-rich soil. Regular watering and staking will keep the tall stems upright and the tassels graceful.
Q: Is Coral Fountain edible or ornamental?
Both. It’s primarily grown for its coral-hued beauty, but the young leaves and seeds are edible. The leaves can be cooked like spinach, and the seeds can be popped or milled.
Q: How do I harvest its seeds?
Allow tassels to dry on the plant until they feel crisp and tan at the base. Shake or rub them gently over a tray to release the tiny seeds, then dry thoroughly before storage.
Q: How do I save seeds for next season?
Select strong, uniform plants with rich coral coloring. Harvest after full maturity, winnow out chaff, and store in a cool, dry location for up to 4–5 years.
Q: Does it attract wildlife or pollinators?
Yes. Bees and butterflies visit its blossoms, and small songbirds often feed on ripened seeds.
Q: Is Coral Fountain drought-tolerant?
Yes. Once established, it tolerates heat and drought extremely well. Deep, infrequent watering encourages longer tassels and stronger stems.
Q: Is it native to North America?
No. It descends from Amaranthus caudatus, a species domesticated in South America, cultivated for millennia by Indigenous Andean peoples.
Q: Can it reseed itself?
Yes, though not aggressively. If seed heads are left in place, expect a few volunteers the following spring.
Q: When should I sow outdoors?
After the last frost, once soil temperatures consistently reach 70°F or warmer. It thrives in the peak heat of summer.
Q: Can Coral Fountain Amaranth be dried or used in arrangements?
Absolutely. Harvest tassels when half to fully mature. Hang them upside down in a shaded, well-ventilated space to dry naturally.
Q: What causes faded or pale tassels?
Cool, cloudy weather or excess nitrogen in the soil can reduce color intensity. Warm conditions and balanced fertility enhance its coral glow.
Q: Does it need support?
In windy or exposed gardens, staking helps keep stems upright and tassels from tangling or breaking under their own weight.
Q: Is it safe for pets or livestock?
Yes, in moderation. The leaves and seeds are nontoxic and nutritious, though high quantities of raw greens can accumulate nitrates if grown in overly fertilized soil.
Long before its coral-pink plumes graced ornamental gardens, Coral Fountain Amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus) grew in the ancient terraces of the Andes and the sun-warmed valleys of Mesoamerica. There, amaranth was not merely a crop but a sacred companion in the great triad of Indigenous agriculture—maize, beans, and amaranth—each representing balance, nourishment, and spiritual harmony. For the Inca, Quechua, and Aztec civilizations, amaranth symbolized endurance, beauty, and the cyclical renewal of life. The plant’s seeds were mixed with honey or the sap of maguey and molded into figures of the gods, later eaten in ceremonies meant to unite the people with the divine.
When Spanish colonizers arrived in the 1500s, they misunderstood the sacredness of the ritual. To suppress the old ways, they outlawed amaranth cultivation in many regions, threatening punishment for its planting. But Indigenous farmers, ever faithful to their ancestral crops, continued to sow it quietly. In the highlands of Peru and Bolivia, it survived in hidden plots and among the stone terraces where the conquerors rarely ventured. Its seeds, light as dust yet strong as spirit, passed through centuries of resistance—each generation saving a portion for the next.
By the 18th century, amaranth reached Europe through trade routes linking Spain and the New World. Gardeners in the Old World, captivated by its dramatic plumes and adaptability, cultivated it as a curiosity. The most famous of these ornamental forms was the deep crimson Love-Lies-Bleeding, whose trailing tassels symbolized love, sorrow, and mortality in the language of Victorian flowers. Amid these selections, natural mutations produced gentler tones—soft pinks and peach shades that would later define Coral Fountain. Early European breeders, entranced by its refined hue, stabilized the variety through repeated selection for form and color uniformity.
Though Coral Fountain became a fixture of estate gardens and public parks by the 19th century, its roots remained Indigenous—its genes carrying the memory of mountains, ceremonies, and survival. While Europeans saw in it romance and elegance, its essence remained that of a sacred food, a plant whose very resilience told the story of resistance and renewal.
In modern times, Coral Fountain Amaranth has reclaimed its dual heritage: ornamental and ancestral. Its seeds remain edible, offering high protein and essential nutrients, while its tassels spill like cascading coral streams in the summer breeze—a living echo of the Andean terraces where its ancestors once stood. To cultivate it is to bring forward the radiance of a plant that has endured colonization, adaptation, and rediscovery, all while holding fast to its place in the cycle of life.
Choose vigorous, healthy plants that display the best color, growth habit, and seed head form for the variety. Avoid saving from plants that lodge (fall over), show disease, or produce weak seed heads. For leafy types, select those with tender, flavorful leaves and strong regrowth.
Mark ideal plants early in the season using colored ties. Let them mature fully to ensure the seeds reach full physiological ripeness. Save seed from at least 6–10 plants per variety to maintain strong genetic diversity and avoid inbreeding.
Amaranth is open-pollinated and wind/insect pollinated, so maintain 500 feet (150 m) isolation distance between varieties of the same species (A. caudatus, A. cruentus, or A. tricolor) to prevent cross-pollination.
2. Harvesting Seeds
Allow flower heads (plumes or spikes) to mature until they dry naturally on the plant and seeds begin to fall freely when rubbed. The bracts should turn dry and papery, and seed color will darken to its mature shade (black, tan, or cream depending on the variety).
Cut entire seed heads on a dry morning, before shattering begins. Place in paper bags or on tarps in a shaded, ventilated area to finish curing for 7–10 days. Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and promote mold.
3. Threshing & Cleaning
Once the seed heads are crisp-dry, gently rub them between your hands or against a fine mesh screen to separate the seeds from chaff. For large harvests, place dried plumes in a clean tub and tread lightly or roll with a dowel to release seeds.
Winnow using a fan or steady breeze—pour seed and chaff between two containers, letting the lighter debris blow away. Repeat several times until seeds are clean and glossy.
Optional natural sanitization methods:
Hydrogen peroxide rinse: 3% solution for 3 minutes, then rinse and dry.
Apple cider vinegar solution: 1:10 ratio for 1 minute, followed by thorough rinsing.
Chamomile tea rinse: As a mild antifungal option before drying.
4. Drying Seeds
Spread cleaned seeds in a thin layer on parchment or mesh in a warm, shaded, and airy location (below 95°F / 35°C). Stir daily for even drying. Seeds are ready for storage when hard and brittle, typically after 5–10 days depending on humidity.
Avoid direct sunlight or oven drying, which can damage seed embryos. In humid climates, use a small fan or dehydrator on the lowest setting (around 85°F / 29°C).
5. Storing Seeds
For long-term viability:
Store fully dried seeds in airtight glass jars or paper envelopes sealed inside larger containers.
Label each with variety, species, and year saved.
Add a natural desiccant (silica gel or baked rice) to absorb moisture.
Keep in a cool, dark, and dry location—ideal temperature 35–45°F (1–7°C).
Amaranth seeds can remain viable for 4–6 years, sometimes longer when kept refrigerated with low humidity.
6. Testing Seed Viability
To test germination before replanting:
Place 10 seeds on a damp, non-chlorinated paper towel.
Fold and seal inside a plastic bag or lidded container.
Keep warm (75–80°F / 24–27°C) for 4–6 days.
Count sprouted seeds:
8–10 = Excellent viability
6–7 = Acceptable
Below 6 = Reseed to refresh stock
7. Preventing Cross-Pollination
Because amaranth is largely wind and insect pollinated, maintain isolation between varieties of the same species. If space is limited, you can:
Bag individual inflorescences with fine mesh before they release pollen.
Stagger planting times by 2–3 weeks to reduce overlap in flowering.
Grow one species per year in confined gardens to maintain varietal purity.
8. Record Keeping
Keep detailed notes on:
Parent plant traits (height, leaf color, seed head form)
Harvest dates
Cleaning and drying duration
Storage method and location
Germination test results
Add observations on growth vigor, drought tolerance, and pest resistance. Over time, this builds a record of local adaptation and performance—an invaluable asset for regional seed stewardship.
9. Organic Tips for Success
Always use non-chlorinated water in rinsing or viability tests.
Compost leftover plant debris to return nutrients to the soil.
Rotate planting locations yearly to prevent disease buildup.
Encourage native bees and pollinators—they improve yield and genetic health.
Avoid synthetic fungicides or chemical seed coatings.
Renew your seed line every few years to maintain vigor and local adaptation.
Coral Fountain Amaranth is both ornamental and edible, bridging the beauty of the garden with the bounty of the kitchen. The young leaves can be cooked or steamed like spinach, offering a mild, nutty flavor rich in iron and protein. As the plant matures, its cascading coral tassels produce tiny, nutrient-dense seeds that can be harvested as a pseudo-grain similar to quinoa. These seeds can be toasted, popped, or ground into flour for porridge, flatbreads, or baked goods.
General Preparation Methods
Leafy Greens:
Harvest young leaves before flowering for tender, mild greens. Steam, sauté, or add to soups and stir-fries for an earthy, spinach-like flavor.
Grain Use:
When mature, the seed heads can be threshed and winnowed. The seeds cook quickly, taking on a nutty aroma and creamy texture, ideal for pilafs, porridge, or mixed with rice.
Baking & Flour:
Ground amaranth flour enhances baked goods with a subtle sweetness and boosts nutritional value with complete protein and minerals.
Decorative & Edible Garnish:
The brilliant coral plumes can be dried for arrangements or used fresh to accent dishes and beverages, bringing a touch of color and elegance.
Nutritional Benefits
Amaranth is among the most nutrient-rich plants cultivated by humanity. Both its leaves and seeds are excellent sources of complete plant-based protein, containing all essential amino acids.
Vitamins: High in vitamin A (as carotenoids), vitamin C, and folate.
Minerals: Rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Phytonutrients: Contains rutin and squalene—powerful antioxidants that help support circulatory health and reduce inflammation.
Fiber & Protein: Supports digestive balance and sustains energy through slow release of carbohydrates.
Cultural and Practical Benefits
Historically grown across the Andes, Amaranthus caudatus was revered by Indigenous peoples for its beauty, symbolism, and sustenance. It served as both ceremonial adornment and sacred food. In modern gardens, Coral Fountain connects growers to that heritage, uniting ornamental splendor with ancient nutritional wisdom.
Cultural Symbolism: Once linked to fertility and renewal in Andean rituals.
Seed Sovereignty: Easy to save and adapt locally, encouraging regional resilience and food security.
Pollinator Habitat: Its vibrant tassels draw beneficial insects such as bees and hoverflies.
Everyday Benefits and Garden Value
Beyond its edible virtues, Coral Fountain offers unmatched ornamental beauty. The cascading tassels add elegance to flower borders, cottage gardens, and cut-flower arrangements. It performs equally well in raised beds or containers, tolerating heat and drought with ease.
Dual Purpose: Both food and ornamental crop.
Sustainability: Thrives without heavy fertilization or irrigation.
Cut & Dry Use: Retains color beautifully when dried, making it a florist favorite.
Environmental and Garden Benefits
Pollinator Attraction: Tassels serve as feeding and nesting sites for beneficial insects.
Soil Building: Deep roots loosen compact soils, increasing aeration and organic content over time.
Adaptability: Thrives in poor, dry soils where many crops fail, contributing to low-input gardening systems.
Biodiversity Preservation: By growing Coral Fountain, seedkeepers help maintain one of humanity’s oldest cultivated grains, preserving genetic and cultural heritage for future generations.
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Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
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We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!
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Alliance of Native Seedkeepers
Amaranth Seeds - Coral Fountain
$200 USD
Unit price /
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Description
Amaranth Seeds - Coral Fountain offers a striking addition to your garden with its cascading plumes of coral-pink flowers. This annual plant typically reaches a height of 3 to 5 feet, creating an impressive vertical display. Known for its vigorous growth, Coral Fountain thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a resilient choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. With a maturity period of approximately 60 to 90 days, this amaranth variety provides a vibrant and long-lasting floral presence throughout the growing season.
The flowers of Coral Fountain are not just visually appealing but also versatile. Their unique texture and color make them ideal for fresh or dried arrangements, adding an exotic touch to bouquets and floral displays. As the season progresses, the blooms maintain their vivid hue, ensuring a continuous spectacle in your garden or home. The plant's robust nature and eye-catching appearance make it a standout choice for ornamental purposes.
In addition to its ornamental value, Coral Fountain amaranth can be used in culinary applications. The young leaves are edible and can be harvested for use in salads or as a nutritious green, offering a mild, spinach-like flavor. This dual-purpose plant not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your garden but also contributes to your kitchen, providing a sustainable and attractive option for those looking to incorporate beauty and utility into their gardening endeavors.
