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Description
Gomphrena Globosa, commonly known as Globe amaranth, is an annual plant that belongs to the Amaranthaceae family. It is native to Central and South America and is now found in various parts of the world. The plant grows up to 24 inches tall and 12 inches wide and produces beautiful and long-lasting flowers that come in various colors such as pink, purple, red, and white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Gomphrena |
Appearance
Gomphrena Globosa has an upright growth habit and produces oval-shaped leaves that are 1-2 inches long. The plant blooms from summer to fall and produces spherical flower heads that are about 1 inch in diameter. The flowers are papery and have a dry texture, which makes them last longer even after being cut. The plant comes in various colors such as pink, purple, red, and white. The flowers are also attractive to butterflies and bees.
Care Guide
Gomphrena Globosa is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: Gomphrena Globosa prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow and bloom properly.
- Hardiness Zones: Gomphrena Globosa grows well in hardiness zones 2 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gomphrena Globosa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid watering the plant from above and keep the foliage dry. Insects such as aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant, but they can be easily controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Gomphrena Globosa is native to Central and South America and is now found in various parts of the world such as Asia, Africa, and Australia. The plant grows in a wide range of soil types and is tolerant of heat and drought. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gomphrena Globosa a perennial or annual plant?
A: Gomphrena Globosa is an annual plant that completes its life cycle in one growing season.
Q: How tall does Gomphrena Globosa grow?
A: Gomphrena Globosa can grow up to 24 inches tall and 12 inches wide.
Q: What is the ideal pH range for Gomphrena Globosa?
A: Gomphrena Globosa prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Q: Is Gomphrena Globosa deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Gomphrena Globosa is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Gomphrena Haageana
- Gomphrena Decumbens
- Gomphrena Celosioides
- Gomphrena Pulchella
References
- “Gomphrena Globosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a122.
- “Globe Amaranth (Gomphrena Globosa).” The Spruce, 24 Jan. 2021, www.thespruce.com/globe-amaranth-growing-tips-847882.
- “Gomphrena Globosa.” NC State Extension, 5 Oct. 2020, content.ces.ncsu.edu/gomphrena-globosa.
