Amaranthus cruentus 'Hot Biscuits'

400 Seeds

Amaranthus cruentus 'Hot Biscuits' is a stunning ornamental amaranth known for its warm copper, bronze, and golden flower plumes that mature into rich cinnamon-brown seed heads. It is highly valued for cut flowers, dried flower arrangements, pollinator gardens, and ornamental borders. The edible young leaves can also be harvested like spinach. In the Gulf, it grows best during the mild season and can tolerate heat once established.

Best Planting Time

• September to November (recommended)
• A second sowing is possible in February in cooler Gulf regions.
• Avoid sowing during the hottest part of summer.

Seed Preparation

• No soaking is required.
• Sow fresh, high-quality seeds.
• No cold stratification is needed.

Soil Preparation

Use fertile, loose, well-drained soil.

Recommended mix:

• 40% Garden soil
• 30% Compost
• 20% Coco peat
• 10% Perlite or coarse sand

Ideal soil pH:

• 6.0–7.5

Sowing Method

• Sow directly outdoors or in seed trays.
• Scatter seeds on the soil surface and cover lightly with 2–3 mm of fine soil.
• Keep soil lightly moist during germination.
• Transplant seedlings when they have 3–4 true leaves.

Temperature & Light

• Ideal germination temperature: 20–28°C
• Ideal growing temperature: 22–35°C
• Requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Full sun produces the strongest stems and richest flower color.

Watering

• Keep soil lightly moist until seedlings are established.
• Afterwards, water deeply when the top 3–4 cm of soil becomes dry.
• Mature plants tolerate short dry periods.
• Avoid waterlogged soil.

Germination Time

• 5–10 days

Plant Spacing

• 30–45 cm between plants.
• 45–60 cm between rows.

Flowering

• Blooms approximately 70–90 days after sowing.
• Flower plumes can be harvested fresh or dried.
• Allow seed heads to mature if collecting seeds.

Fertilization

• Mix compost into the soil before planting.
• Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages excessive leafy growth and fewer flowers.

Gulf Climate Tips

• Plant during the cooler season for best results.
• Water early in the morning.
• Apply mulch to conserve moisture.
• Tall plants may benefit from staking in windy locations.
• Monitor for aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
• 'Hot Biscuits' performs beautifully in flower borders, cottage gardens, cutting gardens, containers, and landscape plantings throughout the Gulf.