The Story
Plant Bio
A tall, fast-growing annual with striking, fluffy flower spikes.
Known for its unique, long seed heads that hang down elegantly.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
South America, Africa, India
Toxicity
Leaves and seeds are edible
Bloom period
Late summer – Early fall
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep into moist soil in spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Ensure full sun exposure for vibrant foliage.
- Water consistently but avoid waterlogging; keep soil moist.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season.
- Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding and promote airflow.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Provide full sun for optimal growth
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't plant in shady spots
- Avoid heavy clay soil without amendments
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Love-Lies-Bleeding questions
What zones can Love-Lies-Bleeding grow in?
Love-Lies-Bleeding is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Love-Lies-Bleeding deer resistant?
Yes — Love-Lies-Bleeding is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Love-Lies-Bleeding bloom?
Love-Lies-Bleeding typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Love-Lies-Bleeding need full sun?
Love-Lies-Bleeding does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Love-Lies-Bleeding drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Love-Lies-Bleeding handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Amaranthus to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Love-Lies-Bleeding with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.