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
Introducing the striking Amaranth Seeds - Red Spike, a vibrant addition to your garden that promises both visual appeal and culinary versatility. This cultivar is known for its tall, upright growth habit, reaching heights of up to 5 feet. Its deep red flower spikes are not only stunning but also attract beneficial pollinators, making it a valuable asset to any garden ecosystem. With a typical maturity range of 60 to 75 days, Red Spike amaranth offers a relatively quick turnaround from seed to harvest.
The Red Spike variety is prized for its large, feathery blooms that transition from a rich burgundy to a brighter red as they mature. These dramatic spikes are complemented by lush, dark green foliage, creating a striking contrast that enhances any garden bed or border. In addition to their ornamental appeal, the seeds of Red Spike amaranth are highly nutritious, offering a mild, nutty flavor that can be used in a variety of culinary applications.
In the kitchen, Red Spike amaranth seeds can be cooked like grains or popped for a crunchy snack. The young leaves are also edible and can be used in salads or as a cooked green, offering a slightly earthy taste. This versatile plant is not only a feast for the eyes but also a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who appreciate both beauty and utility.
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 Spike Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus)
Seed Starting & Transplant Timing
Start indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost date, or direct sow outdoors once soil temperatures exceed 60°F (16°C). Red Spike is heat-loving and thrives in warm, bright conditions with consistent sunlight.
Germination range: 70–82°F (21–28°C); seedlings emerge in 5–10 Days. Sow shallowly—seeds need light to germinate. Maintain gentle moisture but avoid overwatering, which can cause damping-off.
Lighting: Provide 14–16 hours of bright light daily under LEDs or fluorescents, keeping lights 2–3 inches above the canopy. Use a small fan for airflow to develop strong stems.
First feed & pot-up: Begin feeding at the first true leaf stage with a diluted balanced organic fertilizer (¼ strength). Pot up to 3–4 inch containers once roots fill their cells.
Harden off: Gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions over 5–7 days before transplanting. Move outdoors when nights stay above 55°F (13°C).
Soil Preparation
Texture & pH: Loose, fertile loam or sandy loam with excellent drainage; pH 6.0–7.2.
Amendments: Incorporate 2 inches of compost or aged manure before planting. Add bone meal or rock phosphate to promote strong flowering.
Bed setup: Raised beds or wide, open plots promote warmth and airflow, preventing mildew on lower leaves.
Watering
Water deeply once or twice weekly, providing around 1 inch per week depending on rainfall.
Best method: Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are ideal to avoid wetting foliage and to reduce fungal pressure.
Tip: Red Spike is moderately drought-tolerant once established—allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings to encourage deep rooting.
Fertilizing
Early growth: Feed every 2–3 weeks with a balanced 5-5-5 or compost tea for healthy vegetative development.
Flowering: Once flower spikes begin to form, reduce nitrogen and shift toward higher potassium (K) and phosphorus (P) to encourage color intensity and strong seed set.
Note: Overfeeding nitrogen delays blooming and produces weak, tall plants with fewer spikes.
Weeding & Mulching
Weed consistently during early establishment, as young amaranth seedlings can be slow to compete.
Mulch: Apply a 2–3 inch organic mulch layer (straw or shredded leaves) to suppress weeds and regulate soil temperature.
Weeding care: Avoid deep hoeing; amaranth’s roots are shallow and easily disturbed.
Sun & Heat Management
Full sun (6–8+ hours daily) is required for vivid red coloration and dense flowering.
Temperature range: Thrives in warm conditions between 70–95°F (21–35°C). Prolonged cool weather slows growth.
Heat management: In extreme heat (>100°F / 38°C), provide light afternoon shade to prevent lower leaf scorch and maintain steady moisture.
Spacing & Support
Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows 24–30 inches apart for good airflow and balanced growth.
Support: Red Spike reaches 4–6 feet tall; staking may be needed in windy areas or soft soils to prevent lodging.
Tip: Thinner spacing yields smaller, more upright spikes ideal for floral use; wider spacing promotes larger, heavily branched plants for seed production.
Companion Planting
Good companions: Corn, okra, basil, and marigold—all attract pollinators and beneficial insects while deterring aphids and flea beetles.
Avoid: Heavy-feeding crops such as tomatoes or cabbage, which may compete for nutrients.
Pollinator note: The dense red blooms attract bees and hoverflies, contributing to pollination of nearby vegetable crops.
Container Growing
Grow in 10–15 gallon containers with rich, free-draining soil. Ensure at least 12 inches of depth for healthy taproots.
Watering: Container-grown plants require more frequent watering—check daily in midsummer and water when the top inch feels dry.
Tip: Use fabric or light-colored pots to prevent heat buildup and root stress.
Pruning & Training
Pinch back tips at 10–12 inches tall to encourage branching and multiple spike development.
Maintenance: Remove lower yellowing leaves to improve airflow and appearance. Avoid pruning heavily after midseason, as this can delay flower spikes.
Season Extension
Red Spike is frost-sensitive. Protect with row covers or low tunnels if early fall frost is expected.
Late season: Harvest ornamental spikes before the first frost to preserve deep red color and seed quality. Hang plumes upside down indoors to dry.
Harvest & Seed Saving
Harvest: For greens, harvest young leaves early. For ornamental or grain use, cut plumes when they’re fully colored but before seeds shatter.
Cut, don’t pull: Use sharp pruners to avoid stem tearing.
Seed saving: Allow flower spikes to mature and dry naturally on the plant until seeds rub free easily. Hang indoors for 10–14 days, then thresh and winnow.
Isolation: Keep at least 500 feet between A. cruentus varieties to preserve Red Spike’s purity.
Additional Tips — Red Spike Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus)
Harvesting
Stage options: Harvest young leaves at 4–6 inches tall for tender cooking greens, or allow plants to reach full height (100–120 Days) for brilliant red flower spikes and grain production. Mature plumes deepen in color as seeds ripen.
Cut cleanly: Use sharp shears when removing leaves or flower heads. Avoid pulling or twisting, which can damage stems and limit further growth.
Production rhythm: Regular harvest of side leaves promotes continued production and encourages branching. For grain, let flower spikes dry on the plant until seeds release easily when rubbed between fingers.
Drying prep: Cut mature plumes, tie in small bundles, and hang upside down in a shaded, airy space for 7–14 days. Once dry, thresh gently and winnow to remove chaff.
Flavor & Nutrition
Profile: Leaves have a mild, spinach-like flavor when young, developing a slightly nutty, earthy undertone as they mature. Seeds offer a delicate, sweet grain flavor similar to quinoa.
Nutrition: High in calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and complete plant protein. A rich source of lysine, vitamin C, and dietary fiber.
Flavor balance: Young greens are mild and soft, while mature leaves taste heartier and pair well with savory dishes or spice blends. Toasted seeds develop a warm, malty flavor perfect for porridges and baked goods.
Handling
Harvest timing: Pick greens early in the morning for best flavor and texture. For ornamental use, cut spikes before they begin shedding pollen to maintain intense coloration.
Processing seeds: After drying, shake or rub flower heads gently to release seeds. Rinse, drain, and dry thoroughly before storage.
Gloves optional: While stems are smooth, dried seed heads may be slightly abrasive—wear gloves when handling mature plumes.
Storage & Preservation
Fresh leaves: Refrigerate unwashed in a perforated bag for up to 7 days. Wash just before use.
Drying leaves: Dehydrate at 115°F (46°C) until crisp, then store for later use in soups or teas.
Seeds: Store completely dry in airtight jars in a cool, dark space. Properly dried grain remains viable and edible for up to 5 years.
Dried ornaments: Spikes can be used in dried floral arrangements; hang them upside down to preserve structure and pigment.
Kitchen Use
Cooking greens: Steam, sauté, or add to soups like spinach or collards. Mild enough for stir-fries and lentil dishes.
Grain preparation: Cook 1 part seed to 3 parts water for 20 minutes, or pop in a dry skillet for cereal, granola, or snack mixes.
Decorative use: The deep crimson spikes add visual drama to wreaths and fall floral displays.
Pairings: Complements corn, beans, lentils, onions, garlic, and citrus or vinegar-based dressings.
Growing & Pruning Tips
Regional adaptation: Originating from tropical and subtropical regions, Red Spike thrives in full sun and heat. It tolerates drought once established but performs best in loamy soil.
Support: Tall plants may need staking in high winds or loose soil.
Airflow: Space 12–18 inches apart to prevent mildew and support upright growth.
Fertility: Overfertilizing encourages excessive foliage and delays flowering. Use moderate compost and avoid heavy nitrogen feeding.
Containers & Watering
Pot size: Minimum 10 gallons for single specimens, 15 gallons for larger displays. Ensure well-drained potting mix.
Water needs: Deep watering once or twice a week promotes strong roots and sturdy stems. Avoid shallow, frequent watering.
Mulch: Apply 2–3 inches of mulch to stabilize soil moisture and temperature.
Companion Planting & Pollinators
Allies: Grow with corn, okra, basil, and sunflowers. These companions attract beneficial insects and reduce pest pressure.
Pollinator support: Flowers provide valuable pollen for bees and hoverflies, supporting ecological diversity.
Avoid: Planting too close to high feeders like squash or tomatoes, which compete for nutrients and water.
Seed Saving
True-to-type: Select plants with deep crimson spikes and strong, upright stems. Avoid cross-pollination with other A. cruentus varieties.
Isolation: Space at least 500 feet from other amaranth species to maintain genetic purity.
Dry thoroughly: Allow heads to dry fully on the plant, then cut and hang for 10–14 days. Gently thresh, winnow, and store dry.
Longevity: Seeds remain viable for up to 5 years in cool, dark storage.
Common Pests & Problems — Red Spike Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus)
Insects & Mites
Aphids (curling or distorted leaves, sticky honeydew, black sooty mold on stems)
Controls: Spray with a firm jet of water to dislodge colonies. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days until cleared. Remove ant colonies nearby and interplant with dill or alyssum to attract lady beetles and lacewings.
Flea beetles (small, round shot-holes in young leaves, reduced early vigor)
Controls: Use floating row covers until plants are 10–12 inches tall. Dust stems with diatomaceous earth and keep surrounding beds weed-free. Trap crops such as mustard or radish lure flea beetles away.
Spider mites (bronzing or speckling of leaves, fine webbing in dry conditions)
Controls: Increase humidity with mulch and consistent watering. Spray leaf undersides with water to disrupt colonies. Alternate horticultural oil and neem treatments. Predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis) can control heavy infestations.
Caterpillars / Armyworms (chewed leaves, frass pellets, holes in plumes)
Controls: Handpick caterpillars and destroy them. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Bt) to young larvae. Keep grass and weeds around planting areas trimmed to reduce egg-laying sites.
Thrips (silvered, twisted leaves and discolored tips)
Controls: Use blue sticky traps for monitoring. Remove spent blooms and weeds that harbor populations. Spray spinosad or insecticidal soap per label instructions.
Leaf miners (white serpentine trails on leaves)
Controls: Prune infested leaves and encourage beneficial wasps with companion flowers such as calendula and cosmos. Avoid chemical sprays that kill natural enemies.
Cutworms (seedlings cut off at ground level overnight)
Controls: Use cardboard collars or small rings around young stems. Remove debris and mulch where larvae hide. Handpick cutworms during evening hours.
Diseases
Leaf spot (Alternaria, Cercospora) (brown to purplish spots on leaves, premature drop)
Prevention: Space plants for airflow, avoid overhead watering, and use clean seed.
Management: Remove infected leaves promptly. Apply neem or copper-based fungicides when humidity persists.
Downy mildew (yellow mottling on leaves, grayish underside growth)
Prevention: Water early, ensure air circulation, and avoid wetting foliage.
Management: Remove affected tissue; copper sprays can slow disease spread.
Powdery mildew (white powdery coating on upper leaf surfaces, late-season onset)
Prevention: Maintain spacing and avoid nitrogen excess.
Management: Apply potassium bicarbonate or sulfur-based fungicides; remove heavily infected leaves.
Root rot / damping-off (seedlings collapse, blackened stems at soil line)
Prevention: Plant in warm, well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering and cold, soggy conditions.
Management: Discard infected seedlings; solarize soil between seasons if the issue repeats.
Rust (orange pustules beneath leaves)
Prevention: Rotate crops and avoid splashing water on foliage.
Management: Remove infected leaves; apply neem oil as a preventative.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Nutrient imbalance (excess nitrogen causing tall, weak stems, and pale plumes)
Fix: Use balanced fertilizer and compost. Overfertilization produces lush but floppy growth.
Heat stress (leaf curl or wilting under high heat)
Fix: Mulch to retain moisture; water in early morning; light shade during extreme heat maintains color intensity.
Water stress / edema (blisters or rough patches on leaves from irregular watering)
Fix: Keep moisture consistent. Avoid alternating between drought and saturation.
Sunscald (bleached or brown patches on tassels or upper leaves)
Fix: Maintain healthy foliage canopy to shield plumes. Avoid aggressive pruning that exposes them to direct midafternoon sun.
Lodging (stem bending or breakage)
Cause: Overfertilization, wind exposure, or shallow watering.
Fix: Deep watering and moderate feeding encourage sturdy root systems. Stake plants in exposed locations.
Monitoring & Prevention Checklist
Check plants twice weekly for aphids, mites, and caterpillars.
Water at soil level to keep foliage dry and reduce disease.
Maintain spacing of 12–18 inches for airflow.
Mulch after soil warms to stabilize moisture and suppress weeds.
Rotate Amaranthus crops every 3 years to avoid soilborne disease buildup.
Sanitize tools and remove diseased leaves or stems immediately.
Encourage beneficial insects with nectar plants and reduced pesticide use.
Red Spike Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus) — FAQs
Q: How tall does Red Spike Amaranth grow?
Typically 4–6 feet tall, with sturdy upright stalks that support thick crimson flower spikes. In rich soil and full sun, some plants may reach 7 feet.
Q: How long does it take to mature?
Around 100–120 Days from sowing to full seed maturity. Flowering generally begins by midsummer and continues until frost.
Q: How long does germination take?
7–10 Days at 70–85°F. Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged during sprouting.
Q: What soil type does Red Spike prefer?
Loamy soil rich in organic matter, but well-drained. It tolerates sandy or slightly rocky soils once established.
Q: How much sunlight does it need?
Full sun—6 to 8 hours minimum daily. The intensity of light deepens the red coloration of leaves and plumes.
Q: How should I space the plants?
12–18 inches apart, with 30-inch row spacing for airflow and easy harvesting. Crowding leads to thinner, weaker spikes.
Q: Is it edible or only ornamental?
Both. The young leaves can be sautéed or steamed like spinach, while the mature seeds are edible and high in protein.
Q: Can it be grown in containers?
Yes, though it prefers deep pots (10–15 gallons) to support its height. Choose a nutrient-rich potting mix and ensure full sun exposure.
Q: How do I harvest the seeds?
When flower heads turn deep maroon and feel dry to the touch, shake or rub them gently over a tray to collect the seeds. Allow them to air-dry thoroughly before storing.
Q: How long do amaranth seeds remain viable?
Stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place, seeds stay viable for up to 5 years.
Q: Does Red Spike attract pollinators or wildlife?
Yes. Its blooms draw bees and beneficial insects, and birds often visit once the seeds mature.
Q: Is it drought-tolerant?
Yes, very. Once established, it thrives in hot, dry conditions. Deep watering every 7–10 days strengthens root systems and seed production.
Q: Is it native to the United States?
No. It descends from Amaranthus cruentus, domesticated by Indigenous peoples of Central and South America.
Q: When should I plant it outdoors?
After the danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed to at least 70°F. Cool soil delays germination.
Q: Does Red Spike Amaranth reseed itself?
Yes, if seed heads are left standing. Collect seeds early if you wish to prevent volunteers.
Q: What causes weak stems or flopping?
Too much nitrogen or excessive shade. Plant in full sun and avoid overfertilizing to encourage strong, upright growth.
Q: Can it be used in floral designs?
Absolutely. Its bold, vertical spikes add structure to arrangements. Harvest before seeds fully mature for long-lasting displays.
Q: How is it traditionally used?
Historically grown for both grain and ceremonial use, its seeds were a sacred food of the Aztec and remain a staple in traditional porridge, breads, and sweets.
Q: How long does flowering last?
Flowering continues for several weeks. Cutting older spikes encourages new flushes for extended ornamental display.
Before the world knew it as a bold ornamental, Red Spike Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus) stood as one of the great grain amaranths that fed ancient civilizations across Mesoamerica and South America. In the fertile valleys of what is now Mexico, Guatemala, and Peru, Indigenous peoples cultivated amaranth as a cornerstone crop long before the arrival of maize in some regions. Its vibrant red inflorescences were not only a sign of fertility and strength but a sacred emblem—its deep crimson hue symbolizing the life force that flows through all creation.
Among the Aztec, amaranth was a crop of both body and spirit. The seeds were roasted, ground, and mixed with honey or agave syrup to make tzoalli, sacred cakes offered in ceremonies honoring Huitzilopochtli, the god of the sun and war. These rituals, conducted in the great temples of Tenochtitlán, celebrated renewal and the unity between humanity and divinity. For the Inca and their Andean counterparts, amaranth’s red varieties were symbols of the eternal cycle of death and rebirth—its seeds tiny yet immortal, lying dormant in dry earth until rain called them to life again.
When the Spanish conquest swept across the Americas in the 16th century, amaranth’s ritual role drew the attention of the colonizers, who deemed it pagan and subversive. Fields were burned, and cultivation was forbidden under threat of violence. Yet, as in so many other corners of the Indigenous world, the seed endured. Hidden in remote terraces and village gardens, it passed quietly from mother to child, from one season to the next. The people knew that to keep the seed alive was to keep a part of themselves unbroken.
Through trade and colonization, Amaranthus cruentus journeyed across the Atlantic to Africa and Asia, where its toughness and adaptability made it a natural staple in tropical climates. African farmers embraced it as a dual-purpose crop—its leaves for cooking and its grain for sustenance—naming it with words meaning “never fading” or “everlasting.” It was here that new color lines and growth forms arose through centuries of adaptation, blending the genetic legacies of the Americas with African soil and sun.
By the 19th century, European horticulturalists began reintroducing the species as an ornamental plant. Selections of the tallest, most richly colored forms were refined into what would become Red Spike Amaranth—a cultivar prized for its upright, fiery crimson plumes and robust presence. To Victorian gardeners, it was a symbol of vigor and passion, yet beneath its beauty lingered the story of a grain that had once sustained empires.
Today, Red Spike Amaranth stands as both tribute and testament. Its towering red spikes recall the sacred fires of ancient temples, and its edible seeds carry the same strength that nourished the ancestors. To plant it is to remember that no decree, no conquest, and no forgetting could extinguish the seed’s will to live.
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 Spike Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus)
Culinary Uses
Red Spike Amaranth unites the roles of food, medicine, and ornament, embodying the power of ancient grain crops. Its young leaves are tender and flavorful when lightly steamed, sautéed, or incorporated into soups and curries. The mature seeds are edible and can be cooked as a pseudo-grain—nutty, slightly sweet, and naturally gluten-free. The plant’s deep crimson pigment is also valued as a natural coloring for foods, offering both beauty and nourishment.
General Preparation Methods
Leafy Greens:
Harvest before flowering for tender, mild greens. They can be cooked like spinach or added raw in small amounts to salads for a splash of color.
Grain Use:
Fully mature seeds can be collected and cooked like quinoa—boiled, toasted, or popped in a dry pan. They thicken soups and porridges beautifully.
Colorant & Decorative Uses:
The deep red bracts and stems can be used to naturally tint vinegars, syrups, and other traditional preparations. When dried, the vibrant spikes add lasting color to floral arrangements.
Nutritional Benefits
Amaranth greens and seeds are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium, and are especially known for their complete amino acid profile, providing lysine—an essential amino acid often lacking in other grains. The red pigmentation of Red Spike comes from betacyanins, natural antioxidants that support cell protection and circulatory health.
Protein: A complete, plant-based source.
Minerals: Abundant in iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Antioxidants: High in anthocyanin-like compounds for vibrant color and health defense.
Fiber: Aids digestion and provides steady energy release.
Cultural and Practical Benefits
Historically linked to Mesoamerican agriculture, Amaranthus cruentus varieties like Red Spike were grown for both seed and ritual. Its scarlet color symbolized vitality, strength, and endurance. Modern gardeners value it as both a heritage crop and a statement plant that feeds the soil and the spirit.
Symbolism: Red amaranths often represented life force and perseverance in ancient cultivation systems.
Seed Sovereignty: Open-pollinated and easy to save, ideal for small seedkeepers and teaching seed-saving principles.
Ecological Role: Provides nectar and pollen to bees, hoverflies, and beneficial insects during midsummer when few crops bloom.
Everyday Benefits and Garden Value
Red Spike doubles as a food source and a dramatic visual element in landscapes or production fields. The tall, upright inflorescences serve as windbreaks, ornamental backdrops, and pollinator havens.
Dual Purpose: Highly productive edible and ornamental crop.
Heat and Drought Tolerance: Thrives in poor soils and full sun.
Low Input: Requires minimal fertilizer and irrigation once established.
Environmental and Garden Benefits
Pollinator Attraction: Red plumes draw bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps, improving pollination for nearby plants.
Soil Enrichment: Amaranth’s deep roots break up compact soil layers, enhancing drainage and aeration for future crops.
Erosion Control: Its dense canopy shades and stabilizes the soil, preventing moisture loss and topsoil erosion.
Biodiversity Preservation: Growing Red Spike supports the survival of ancient food plants that sustain genetic resilience across 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 - Red Spike
$200 USD
Unit price /
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Description
Introducing the striking Amaranth Seeds - Red Spike, a vibrant addition to your garden that promises both visual appeal and culinary versatility. This cultivar is known for its tall, upright growth habit, reaching heights of up to 5 feet. Its deep red flower spikes are not only stunning but also attract beneficial pollinators, making it a valuable asset to any garden ecosystem. With a typical maturity range of 60 to 75 days, Red Spike amaranth offers a relatively quick turnaround from seed to harvest.
The Red Spike variety is prized for its large, feathery blooms that transition from a rich burgundy to a brighter red as they mature. These dramatic spikes are complemented by lush, dark green foliage, creating a striking contrast that enhances any garden bed or border. In addition to their ornamental appeal, the seeds of Red Spike amaranth are highly nutritious, offering a mild, nutty flavor that can be used in a variety of culinary applications.
In the kitchen, Red Spike amaranth seeds can be cooked like grains or popped for a crunchy snack. The young leaves are also edible and can be used in salads or as a cooked green, offering a slightly earthy taste. This versatile plant is not only a feast for the eyes but also a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who appreciate both beauty and utility.
