PlantFiles: Elephant Head Amaranth, Amaranthus
Amaranthus tricolor 'Greek'

So so happy with my amaranth! My Seeds of Change Elephant Head seeds have added a really exotic flare to my garden, with lush, robust foliage and attention grabbing blooms. Always a conversation starter. I planted a whole bed of them, and am as close to being in a jungle with them as I can get! I planted them with some remaining Hopi Red Dye, which was good since the Hopi tends to flop in the late season (and the Elephant has yet to even try), however word is they cross pollinate easily. Looking forward to what comes forth next year, but their individual uses may be compromised.

A unique and stoutly-branched variety. Produces green-gold flower plumes with an abundance of dark purple seeds. In Greece the greens are served steamed. Sow directly, 8-10 seeds per foot when soil is warm and danger of frost has passed. For an earlier crop, can be planted in flats and transplanted when 4-8 inches tall. Enriching soil with mature compost gives larger plants and greater yield of seeds. Pick at peak of bloom, or for eating, leave heads on plants until they drop a few seeds or pick before the first frost. Dry a week.