The Story
Plant Bio
Gomphrena globosa, or globe amaranth, is a tropical annual known for its globe-shaped flowerheads with papery bracts. It thrives in heat and is very drought tolerant.
The 'Fireworks' cultivar is a taller, more airy variety with long, wiry stems topped by hot pink, starburst-like flowerheads with tiny yellow stamens, resembling exploding fireworks.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
36 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
Central America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets and humans
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Water weekly during dry spells for healthy growth.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
- Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth.
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous bloom.
Pro Tip
Use a sunny spot with well-draining soil for best flowering performance.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply but infrequently to prevent root rot 🌱
- Apply organic compost annually for rich soil
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues ❌
- Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen fertilizers which can reduce flowering
- Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Fireworks Globe Amaranth questions
What zones can Fireworks Globe Amaranth grow in?
Fireworks Globe Amaranth is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Fireworks Globe Amaranth deer resistant?
Yes — Fireworks Globe Amaranth is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Fireworks Globe Amaranth bloom?
Fireworks Globe Amaranth typically blooms in summer to frost through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Fireworks Globe Amaranth need full sun?
Fireworks Globe Amaranth does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Fireworks Globe Amaranth drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Fireworks Globe Amaranth handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Gomphrena to compare
Globe Amaranth
Gomphrena globosa
Strawberry Fields Globe Amaranth
Gomphrena haageana 'Strawberry Fields'
Prostrate Globe Amaranth
Gomphrena decumbens 'Airy Bachelor's Buttons'
Truffula Pink Globe Amaranth
Gomphrena pulchella 'Truffula Pink Globe Amaranth'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Fireworks Globe Amaranth 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.