Fall Flower Feature: Amaranth

By Sarah Whiton

Growing in seasonal bronze, burgundy and green, amaranth adds shape, texture and movement to any fall floral arrangement! We love incorporating local amaranth into our fall specials and wedding work this time of year. Here are some fun facts about this seasonal bloom.

• Amaranth varieties range in height from only a few inches to up to 10 feet in height.
• It blooms from late summer through autumn.
• The small clustered blooms of amaranth transform into seed heads and a single plant can produce 60,000 seeds per year with which it can self-propagate.
• Its name is derived from the Greek word amarantos which means "everlasting" and most likely refers to how amaranth will hold its vivid color even after drying.
• Amaranth seeds are often eaten like a grain and are an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamin E, iron, calcium and magnesium while also being gluten-free.
• In traditional Mexican Day of the Dead festivities, popped amaranth seeds are mixed with honey and sugar and formed into the shape of a skull.