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
Unveil the striking beauty of Amaranth Seeds - Red Army in your garden. This robust cultivar stands tall, reaching heights of up to 6 feet, making it a commanding presence in any setting. Known for its vibrant red foliage and flowers, it adds a dramatic splash of color that intensifies as the season progresses. With a typical maturity period of 60-75 days, this amaranth is not only an ornamental delight but also a nutritious addition to your culinary repertoire.
Red Army amaranth offers a versatile harvest. The leaves can be enjoyed fresh or cooked, offering a mild, spinach-like flavor that complements a variety of dishes. As the plant matures, its seeds become a valuable source of protein and can be harvested for use in baking or as a gluten-free grain alternative. The tiny, nutty seeds provide a delightful crunch and are perfect for adding texture to salads and stir-fries.
Adaptable to a range of growing conditions, Red Army thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, demonstrating impressive drought tolerance once established. This resilient variety not only supports biodiversity but also attracts beneficial insects, making it an eco-friendly choice for sustainable gardening. Whether you're aiming to enhance your garden's aesthetic or expand your culinary horizons, Red Army amaranth is a standout choice.
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 — Red Army Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus)
Seed Starting & Transplant Timing
Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost or direct sow once soil temperatures reach 60°F (16°C) and all danger of frost has passed. Red Army thrives in consistent warmth and direct sunlight.
Germination range: 70–82°F (21–28°C); emergence in 5–10 Days. Sow shallowly—no more than ⅛ inch deep, as amaranth seeds need light to germinate. Mist lightly and keep evenly moist but never soggy.
Lighting: Provide 14–16 hours of bright light daily using LEDs or fluorescents. Maintain 2–4 inches between lights and seedling tops to prevent legginess.
First feed & pot-up: Begin feeding at first true leaves with diluted organic fertilizer (¼-strength). Pot up to 3–4 inch containers when roots reach the pot edges.
Harden off: Gradually introduce seedlings to outdoor conditions over 5–7 days before transplanting into warm soil.
Soil Preparation
Texture & pH: Fertile, well-drained loam or sandy loam with pH 6.0–7.2. Avoid dense clay or wet soils that retain water.
Amendments: Mix 2 inches of compost into the top 8 inches of soil before planting. Add bone meal or rock phosphate for sturdy flowering stems and strong seed development.
Bed setup: Raised beds or wide rows promote airflow and prevent stem rot. Loose soil encourages deep taproot growth for stability and drought resistance.
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong roots. Aim for 1 inch per week, adjusting during dry or windy periods.
Best method: Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to the soil, keeping foliage dry to minimize disease.
Tip: Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings—Red Army tolerates light drought better than excess moisture.
Fertilizing
Early growth: Feed with balanced organic fertilizer (5-5-5) or compost tea every 2–3 weeks to promote healthy foliage and roots.
Flowering: Once plumes form, reduce nitrogen and use a high-phosphorus, high-potassium feed to enhance bloom color and seed set.
Note: Avoid high nitrogen throughout the season, as it produces soft stems and delays flowering.
Weeding & Mulching
Weed regularly during early establishment, as seedlings are delicate and easily shaded.
Mulch: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch (straw, shredded leaves, or compost) after soil warms. This retains moisture, reduces weeds, and stabilizes soil temperature.
Weeding care: Hand-weed around the base of young plants—roots are shallow and easily damaged.
Sun & Heat Management
Full sun (6–8+ hours per day) is essential for bold red color and heavy flowering.
Temperature range: Prefers 75–95°F (24–35°C); tolerates brief peaks up to 100°F (38°C) with adequate soil moisture.
Heat management: In prolonged extreme heat, provide light afternoon shade to prevent lower leaf scorch. Keep soil moisture steady during hot, dry winds.
Spacing & Support
Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows 24–30 inches apart for optimal airflow and sturdy growth.
Support: Red Army can reach 5–7 feet tall and may require staking or wind protection in exposed sites.
Good companions: Corn, basil, marigold, and okra—all help deter pests while attracting bees and beneficial insects.
Avoid: Dense, water-hungry crops like squash or cucumbers that compete for space and moisture.
Pollinator note: Red Army’s long crimson plumes attract bees, butterflies, and hoverflies, boosting pollination for neighboring plants.
Container Growing
Use 10–15 gallon pots filled with rich, well-draining potting mix. Ensure containers are at least 12 inches deep for healthy taproots.
Watering: Check soil daily in hot weather and water when the top inch feels dry.
Tip: Fabric pots are ideal—they keep roots cool, prevent compaction, and improve air exchange.
Pruning & Training
Pinch back the top 3–4 inches of growth at 10–12 inches tall to encourage branching and multiple plumes.
Maintenance: Remove lower yellowing leaves to maintain airflow. Avoid heavy pruning after midseason, which delays flowering and seed ripening.
Season Extension
Red Army is frost-sensitive and ceases growth below 50°F (10°C). Use row covers or low tunnels in early spring or late fall to extend the season.
Late season: Harvest plumes before frost for drying or seed saving. Hang in shaded, airy conditions for 10–14 days to preserve deep red hues.
Harvest & Seed Saving
Harvest: Cut plumes when fully colored but before seeds begin to fall freely. For grain, allow flower heads to dry on the plant until seeds rub out easily.
Cut, don’t pull: Use pruners or shears to prevent stem splitting.
Seed saving: Hang seed heads upside down indoors for 10–14 days to dry. Thresh and winnow gently to clean.
Isolation: Keep 500 feet from other A. cruentus types to ensure pure seed lines.
Additional Tips — Red Army Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus)
Harvesting
Stage options: Harvest tender young leaves about 4–6 weeks after sowing for greens, or allow 100–120 Days for mature red plumes and grain production. Flower heads deepen to a dark burgundy when seeds are ready to collect.
Cut cleanly: Use pruners to remove leaves or seed heads without pulling on the stems. The tall stalks are fibrous, and rough handling can damage secondary shoots or delay regrowth.
Production rhythm: Pick leaves every few days to encourage new shoots and extended harvest. For grain, allow plumes to mature and begin drying on the plant, then cut once seeds rub free easily.
Drying prep: Hang seed heads upside down in small bundles in a shaded, well-ventilated space for 10–14 days. Once dry, gently thresh and winnow the seed for long-term storage.
Flavor & Nutrition
Profile: Young leaves have a mild, spinach-like flavor with a hint of nuttiness. Mature leaves and stems taste heartier, and the seeds are delicately sweet and slightly malty when toasted.
Nutrition: Exceptionally rich in calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A and C. Seeds are a complete protein, containing lysine, an amino acid lacking in most grains.
Flavor balance: Leaves pair well with garlic, onion, soy, or sesame. Toasted seeds add warmth and texture to cereals, granola, or baked goods.
Handling
Harvest timing: Pick greens early in the morning for tenderness and the best flavor. For decorative purposes, cut plumes just before full seed maturity to preserve deep red color.
Processing seeds: Rub dried plumes gently over a clean cloth or screen. Rinse and dry thoroughly before sealing in jars.
Gloves optional: Safe to handle, though mature seed heads can be rough or mildly abrasive on the skin.
Storage & Preservation
Fresh leaves: Store unwashed in perforated bags in the refrigerator for up to one week. Rinse only before cooking.
Drying leaves: Dehydrate at 115°F (46°C) until crisp. Store in airtight containers to preserve color and nutrients.
Seeds: Store fully dry in airtight jars in a cool, dark place. Properly stored seed remains viable and edible for up to 5 years.
Ornamental drying: Hang stems upside down in the shade to preserve plume structure and vivid coloration for months.
Kitchen Use
Cooking greens: Steam or stir-fry briefly. Works beautifully in soups, stir-fries, and stews.
Grain preparation: Cook 1 part seed to 3 parts water for 20 minutes. The result is soft, slightly nutty, and protein-rich.
Decorative use: The upright crimson spikes add rich texture to dried floral arrangements or wreaths.
Pairings: Excellent with beans, lentils, corn, tomatoes, and garlic. Complements both savory and mildly sweet dishes.
Growing & Pruning Tips
Regional adaptation: Performs best in full sun and warm climates. Highly tolerant of drought once established but thrives with regular deep watering.
Support: Plants exceeding 5 feet may need staking in open or windy gardens.
Airflow: Maintain 12–18 inch spacing between plants to reduce risk of mildew and to encourage upright growth.
Fertility: Moderate compost application is ideal. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes weak stems and delayed flowering.
Containers & Watering
Pot size: 10–15 gallon containers recommended for full growth. Use loose, well-draining potting mix.
Water needs: Deep watering every 7–10 days promotes strong root systems and sturdy stalks. Avoid shallow, frequent watering.
Mulch: Apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch to regulate temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds.
Companion Planting & Pollinators
Allies: Grows well with corn, basil, and okra. These companions help deter pests and attract beneficial pollinators.
Pollinator support: The flowers attract bees, hoverflies, and beneficial insects that improve biodiversity.
Avoid: Planting beside crops that require frequent irrigation, such as lettuce or spinach, as excessive moisture can promote fungal issues.
Seed Saving
True-to-type: Select robust plants with deep crimson spikes, upright growth, and uniform seed color for saving.
Isolation: Maintain 500 feet or more from other A. cruentus types to ensure genetic purity.
Dry thoroughly: Cut mature heads when seeds begin to loosen. Hang 10–14 days in a dry, shaded location, then thresh and winnow.
Storage: Store seeds in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. They remain viable for 4–5 years.
Common Pests & Problems — Red Army Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus)
Insects & Mites
Aphids (clusters on new leaves, sticky residue, distorted growth, and sooty mold)
Controls: Spray affected areas with a sharp stream of water to remove colonies. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days until populations decline. Remove nearby weeds and ant colonies that shelter them. Companion plant with dill or fennel to attract lady beetles and lacewings.
Flea beetles (tiny shot-holes in young leaves, slowed seedling growth)
Controls: Protect young plants with floating row covers until 10–12 inches tall. Dust soil with diatomaceous earth or wood ash. Use trap crops such as radish or mustard and maintain weed-free beds.
Spider mites (stippling, webbing, or bronzing of leaves under hot, dry conditions)
Controls: Increase humidity by mulching and watering consistently. Hose down undersides of leaves weekly. Rotate neem oil and horticultural oils. Predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis) help suppress infestations indoors or in greenhouses.
Caterpillars / Armyworms (ragged leaves, frass pellets, feeding holes on plumes)
Controls: Handpick larvae in early morning or evening. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Bt) when caterpillars are small. Keep nearby vegetation mowed to limit egg-laying sites for moths.
Thrips (silvery streaks or twisted new leaves, possible virus transmission)
Controls: Install blue sticky traps for monitoring. Remove weeds and flowers near planting areas. Apply spinosad or insecticidal soap per label instructions. Avoid mowing flowering weeds during warm, dry periods.
Leaf miners (winding white tunnels in leaves)
Controls: Remove affected leaves immediately. Encourage beneficial parasitic wasps by growing marigolds, calendula, or yarrow nearby. Avoid synthetic insecticides that kill beneficials.
Cutworms (seedlings cut off at soil line during night feeding)
Controls: Use cardboard collars or paper sleeves around stems at planting. Clear plant debris and weeds near beds. Handpick larvae at dusk when active.
Diseases
Leaf spot (Alternaria / Cercospora spp.) (brown or black spots with halos, premature leaf drop)
Prevention: Space plants for airflow and water at the base. Avoid dense plantings and overhead irrigation.
Management: Remove affected leaves and destroy them. Apply neem oil or copper sprays preventively.
Downy mildew (yellow mottling on upper leaves, grayish mold beneath)
Prevention: Plant in areas with good airflow and water early in the morning. Avoid prolonged leaf wetness.
Management: Remove infected foliage and apply copper-based or biological fungicides as protectants.
Powdery mildew (white powdery coating on leaves, usually late season)
Prevention: Maintain good spacing, avoid excess nitrogen, and ensure strong sunlight exposure.
Management: Remove infected leaves and apply sulfur or potassium bicarbonate biofungicides at first sign.
Root rot / damping-off (seedling collapse, brown lesions at soil line)
Prevention: Use warm, well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
Management: Discard infected seedlings; solarize or rotate garden soil in future plantings.
Rust (orange pustules on undersides of leaves)
Prevention: Rotate Amaranthus crops for 3 years and avoid splashing water.
Management: Remove infected leaves and apply neem or copper-based sprays preventively.
Drought stress (leaf droop, slow tassel development, reduced color intensity)
Fix: Water deeply once or twice per week, depending on heat. Mulch to stabilize soil moisture.
Heat stress (curling leaves or temporary midday wilt during extreme heat)
Fix: Provide light afternoon shade during heatwaves. Keep soil evenly moist.
Water stress / edema (blisters or rough leaf patches from irregular watering)
Fix: Maintain steady moisture; avoid alternating between drought and soaking.
Sunscald (bleached or burnt upper leaves and tassels)
Fix: Avoid heavy pruning; maintain sufficient canopy cover to protect upper plumes.
Lodging (stem collapse or tilting)
Cause: Excess nitrogen, strong winds, or shallow watering.
Fix: Water deeply to promote strong roots. Stake plants if grown in open, windy fields.
Monitoring & Prevention Checklist
Inspect plants twice weekly for aphids, thrips, and caterpillars.
Water early in the day and at soil level.
Keep 12–18 inch spacing for airflow.
Mulch after soil warms to reduce evaporation and weed pressure.
Rotate Amaranthus crops every 3 years to prevent disease buildup.
Remove diseased leaves and discard instead of composting.
Encourage beneficial insects with nectar plants.
Avoid overfertilization—balance vigor with sturdy structure.
Red Army Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus) — FAQs
Q: How tall does Red Army Amaranth grow?
Typically 4–6 feet tall, though in ideal soil it can reach up to 7 feet. Plants develop broad, wine-red leaves and upright crimson plumes that resemble banners of flame.
Q: How long does it take to mature?
Around 100–120 Days from sowing to full seed harvest. The plant begins flowering midsummer and continues until frost if regularly deadheaded.
Q: How long does germination take?
7–10 Days at 70–85°F. Consistent warmth and light soil help ensure quick, uniform emergence.
Q: What soil type is best for Red Army Amaranth?
Loamy or sandy loam soil, well-drained and rich in organic matter. Avoid waterlogged ground to prevent root rot.
Q: How much sunlight does it require?
Full sun—at least 6 hours per day. The intense color of its leaves and plumes develops best under direct light and high heat.
Q: What spacing is recommended?
12–18 inches between plants, with 30-inch spacing between rows for airflow and ease of harvesting.
Q: Is it edible or ornamental?
Both. Young leaves are tender and flavorful, while mature seeds are edible and protein-rich. It’s also prized for its vivid ornamental display.
Q: Can it be grown in containers?
Yes, but large containers (minimum 10 gallons) are needed to support its height and deep root system. Ensure full sun and well-draining potting mix.
Q: How do I harvest seeds?
When seed heads turn dark red and dry, cut and hang them upside down in a dry, airy space. Rub the plumes gently to separate seeds, then winnow and dry before storing.
Q: How do I save seeds for next year?
Select strong, true-to-type plants with deep color and firm stems. Harvest fully dried heads, clean seeds thoroughly, and store in airtight containers in a cool, dark place for up to 5 years.
Q: Does Red Army attract pollinators or wildlife?
Yes. Its blooms attract bees, butterflies, and small birds, which often feed on mature seeds.
Q: Is it drought-tolerant?
Very. Once established, it thrives under hot, dry conditions and requires only occasional deep watering.
Q: Is it native to North America?
No. It descends from Amaranthus cruentus, a species domesticated in Mesoamerica and the Andes thousands of years ago.
Q: When should I sow outdoors?
After the final frost when soil has warmed to at least 70°F. Direct sowing in late spring ensures the strongest plants.
Q: Does it reseed?
Yes, if seed heads are left to mature. Collect them before scattering if you prefer controlled growth.
Q: Can Red Army be used in arrangements or decor?
Absolutely. Its upright plumes add height and color to bouquets. For dried arrangements, harvest when fully colored and hang in a shaded, ventilated space.
Q: Why is my plant’s color fading?
Excess nitrogen or partial shade can dull red pigments. Moderate feeding and full sunlight intensify coloration.
Q: What is its cultural significance?
Red Army Amaranth represents resilience and strength. Its lineage descends from sacred American grain amaranths, preserved and adapted across continents as a symbol of survival and endurance.
Q: How long does it bloom?
Flowering lasts several weeks, and removing older spikes can encourage new side plumes for continuous color into autumn.
Red Army Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus) carries within its scarlet plumes the ancient pulse of a lineage that predates nations, religions, and conquest. Long before it was given a modern name evoking vigor and endurance, this species was among the foundational grains of pre-Columbian civilization—cultivated by the Aztec, Maya, and Inca alike. It grew alongside maize and beans, a sacred triad symbolizing the harmony between nourishment, the soil, and the divine.
In Aztec society, amaranth was regarded as both sustenance and spirit. Its seeds, rich in protein and vitality, were used to create sacred effigies of deities—particularly Huitzilopochtli, god of the sun and war. These effigies were later ceremonially broken and consumed by the people, a ritual signifying the unity between human life and cosmic power. The plant’s red pigmentation symbolized the sacred lifeblood of the earth and its endless renewal.
When Spanish conquerors arrived in the 16th century, they misunderstood these ceremonies as pagan heresy and outlawed the cultivation of amaranth, ordering the destruction of fields that had fed civilizations for millennia. Yet, the people persisted. In the highlands and valleys of Mexico and Peru, seeds were hidden away—tucked into earthen jars, traded discreetly in markets, and replanted under the guise of ornamental flowers. It was through this quiet defiance that amaranth survived centuries of prohibition.
As colonial trade expanded, amaranth found its way to Africa and Asia through the exchange of botanical specimens and food crops. There, it flourished under new skies, adapting to tropical heat and poor soils. African and Asian farmers came to rely on it for its dual role as both grain and green, its crimson leaves and flower spikes symbolizing vitality in local folklore. These global journeys enriched the genetic tapestry of the cruentus lineage, blending the strength of its American ancestry with the endurance honed across continents.
The modern cultivar known as Red Army Amaranth draws its name from this shared spirit of resilience. The variety, likely stabilized during the late 20th century by independent growers and seed preservationists, embodies the unyielding vigor of its ancestors—a plant that stands tall against drought, neglect, and hardship. Its color, a deep military red, reflects both the ferocity of life and the bloodlines of heritage that refused to be erased.
Today, Red Army Amaranth is grown across the world not as a novelty, but as a living heirloom of defiance and strength. To sow its seeds is to honor those who protected it through centuries of colonization and displacement, and to recognize that within every plume lies the history of survival. It is a crop that feeds, heals, and resists—a crimson banner of the earth’s unbroken will.
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.
Uses and Benefits — Red Army Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus)
Culinary Uses
Red Army Amaranth is a dual-purpose variety prized for its vivid scarlet seed heads and high nutritional yield. The young leaves are tender and mild, excellent as a leafy green for sautéing, soups, and stir-fries. Once mature, the plant produces abundant grain heads filled with tiny, nutty-flavored seeds that can be cooked, popped, or ground into flour. Its versatility allows it to bridge the gap between a beautiful ornamental and a productive staple food crop.
General Preparation Methods
Leafy Greens:
Harvest young leaves early for the best flavor and texture. They can be steamed or quickly stir-fried like spinach, or added fresh to salads for a boost of iron and color.
Grain Use:
Mature seeds can be winnowed and used as a high-protein grain. Boil 1 part seed to 2 parts water for a soft, creamy texture similar to quinoa, or toast and pop them for crunchy toppings.
Flour & Baking:
Grind dried seeds into flour to enrich breads, pancakes, and baked goods with protein and a subtle nutty taste.
Nutritional Benefits
Amaranth is a nutrient-dense powerhouse, long revered for its balance of protein, minerals, and antioxidants. Red Army excels in both leaf and seed nutrition.
Protein: A complete, plant-based source containing all essential amino acids.
Vitamins: High in vitamin C, folate, and beta-carotene.
Minerals: Abundant in iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium.
Antioxidants: Red pigmentation comes from betacyanins, potent compounds supporting heart and cell health.
Fiber: Aids digestion and promotes satiety.
Cultural and Practical Benefits
Red Army descends from ancient Amaranthus cruentus types grown throughout Central and South America as a ceremonial and staple crop. Its strength lies in adaptability—it performs well from small gardens to production fields. The name “Red Army” reflects its uniformity and vigor, a fitting title for a plant known to withstand drought and heat without losing brilliance.
Heritage Crop: Rooted in traditional grain amaranths cultivated for millennia.
Seed Sovereignty: Open-pollinated and easy to save for future planting.
High Yields: Reliable producer of grain and biomass in diverse climates.
Cultural Legacy: Represents resilience and self-sufficiency, hallmarks of Indigenous agriculture.
Everyday Benefits and Garden Value
In the garden, Red Army stands tall—up to 6–8 feet—with strong, upright plumes that resist lodging even under wind or summer storms. It brings both beauty and productivity to ornamental beds and food plots alike.
Dual Use: Perfect for edible landscapes and homestead seed production.
Drought Tolerance: Thrives in low-water conditions.
Ease of Growth: Minimal pest pressure and adaptable to most soils.
Cut Flower Appeal: Brilliant red spikes make striking additions to arrangements.
Environmental and Garden Benefits
Pollinator Support: Blooms provide late-season nectar for beneficial insects.
Soil Regeneration: Deep roots break up compacted soils and draw nutrients upward.
Erosion Resistance: Dense growth protects bare ground and stabilizes slopes.
Biodiversity Stewardship: Keeps heritage amaranths in cultivation, preserving genetic diversity vital to food security.
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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 - Red Army
$200 USD
Unit price /
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Description
Unveil the striking beauty of Amaranth Seeds - Red Army in your garden. This robust cultivar stands tall, reaching heights of up to 6 feet, making it a commanding presence in any setting. Known for its vibrant red foliage and flowers, it adds a dramatic splash of color that intensifies as the season progresses. With a typical maturity period of 60-75 days, this amaranth is not only an ornamental delight but also a nutritious addition to your culinary repertoire.
Red Army amaranth offers a versatile harvest. The leaves can be enjoyed fresh or cooked, offering a mild, spinach-like flavor that complements a variety of dishes. As the plant matures, its seeds become a valuable source of protein and can be harvested for use in baking or as a gluten-free grain alternative. The tiny, nutty seeds provide a delightful crunch and are perfect for adding texture to salads and stir-fries.
Adaptable to a range of growing conditions, Red Army thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, demonstrating impressive drought tolerance once established. This resilient variety not only supports biodiversity but also attracts beneficial insects, making it an eco-friendly choice for sustainable gardening. Whether you're aiming to enhance your garden's aesthetic or expand your culinary horizons, Red Army amaranth is a standout choice.
