Amarant Tête d'éléphant - organic-seeds

Amarant Tête d'éléphant

The annual variety Red Amaranth, also known as Chinese spinach, is a striking plant with spectacular red flower spikes. It is both decorative and edible. The leaves can be eaten like spinach, and the black seeds are also edible and nutritious.

Growing Tips for Amaranth “Tête d’éléphant”

Sowing

For an earlier bloom, sow seeds indoors from March in a warm environment with a constant temperature of at least 20°C. Transplant seedlings when they have four leaves, still keeping them in a warm environment (15–20°C). After the last frost, plant them outdoors at a spacing of 50 x 30 cm. Maintain a warm, humid environment with plenty of light and regular watering.

Red amaranth thrives in full sun with well-draining, fertile soil. While it tolerates various soil types, nutrient-rich soil promotes strong growth and healthy flowering.

You can also sow directly in the ground in May or early June. Lightly cover seeds with soil or press them gently into the ground. Thin seedlings to at least 30 cm apart, depending on the desired effect.

Care and Diseases

Red amaranth is generally easy to grow and makes a beautiful addition to your garden due to its decorative flower stalks and culinary uses.
The plant prefers sunny locations and tolerates moderate drought. Regular watering supports healthy growth and good seed production.

Mulching around plants helps keep the soil cool and reduces weed growth.

Harvesting

Leaves can be harvested before flowering while young. They are tender and can be cooked like spinach.

Flower stalks are ready to harvest when flowers are fully formed and show their deep red color.

To harvest seeds, cut the flower stalks at the main stem. Allow them to dry completely and shake to release seeds. Store seeds in a cool, dry place until use.

Benefits of Red Amaranth

• Leaves: rich in protein, vitamins A, B, and C, calcium, and magnesium.

• Seeds: high in protein, fiber, iron, calcium, and magnesium. Can be used as whole seeds, ground into flour, or in soups, salads, desserts, or energy bars, with a slightly nutty flavor.

Red amaranth “Tête d’éléphant” is both a decorative and nutritious plant that enhances your garden and kitchen.