Giant Golden Amaranth

Giant Golden Amaranth is a stunning, versatile plant that deserves a spot in your garden. This ancient crop, revered by the Aztecs, is not only a beautiful addition to your landscape but also a nutritional powerhouse. Growing up to 8 feet tall, this amaranth variety is known for its vibrant golden plumes that transition into seed heads, packed with protein-rich seeds.

Amaranth has a deep-rooted history, particularly with the Aztecs, who cultivated it both for its nutritional value and its sacred significance in ceremonies. Its cultivation was banned by conquistadors in an effort to suppress Aztec culture. Despite this, amaranth persisted in the wild and eventually re-emerged as a valuable crop, especially known for its high protein content.

Giant Golden Amaranth thrives in warm weather, with soil temperatures between 65-75°F being ideal for germination. To get started, sow the seeds directly in your garden, lightly covering them with soil. The seeds usually sprout in just 3-4 days! Once your seedlings are established, thin them out to about 18 inches apart to give them room to grow tall.

This plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil, although it’s quite forgiving and can tolerate poorer soil conditions and even drought once established. Amaranth’s resilience and height make it an excellent choice for various garden uses, whether you’re planting it in rows, using it as a natural trellis for beans, or even incorporating it into a Three Sisters garden alongside corn and beans.

When it comes to harvesting, the real fun begins when the golden plumes turn into seed heads in late summer to early fall. You’ll know it’s time to harvest when you can shake the seeds loose from the flower stalk. The seeds are incredibly versatile—they can be boiled into a nutritious porridge, popped like popcorn, or even ground into flour. Plus, the young leaves make a fantastic spinach substitute.

Keep an eye out for flea beetles, especially when your plants are young. Floating row covers can help protect your seedlings until they are strong enough to handle minor pest damage. Regular weeding is also essential in the early stages, but once your amaranth is established, it will outcompete most weeds.

Whether you’re looking to add a visually striking plant to your garden, boost your homegrown food supply with a nutrient-rich grain, or explore new culinary adventures, Giant Golden Amaranth is a fantastic choice. Its easy-growing nature and impressive benefits make it a must-try for any gardener.

Ready to give it a go? Happy planting!