Gomphrena globosa aka Bachelor's Button

Gomphrena globosa is known as globe amaranth or globe flower. It belongs to the amaranth family, Amaranthaceae. Kew places its native range from Mexico to Brazil. It grows in tropical regions with a dry season. Gardeners grow it as an annual for summer blooms. In warm regions, it can also live as a perennial. Its dense, bushy form suits small beds and pots.

Plants reach about 0.5–2 feet (0.15–0.61 metres) tall. Their spread is about 0.5–1 foot (0.15–0.30 metres). RHS gives a wider upper spread of 1.6 feet (0.5 metres). The plant grows slowly and has a rounded shape. Green stems hold the flower heads above the leaves. The simple, green leaves grow in opposite or near-opposite pairs. They have an oblong shape and smooth edges. Young leaves carry many white hairs, which thin with age. RHS records leaves up to 0.49 feet (0.15 metres) long.

Round flower heads appear from summer into early autumn. Papery bracts give the heads their pink, purple, or white color. The University of Florida also records yellow blooms. Bees, butterflies, and other insects visit the flowers. Cut stems suit fresh displays and dried flower work. The heads keep their color well as they dry. Each small, dry, oval fruit is an achene. It usually holds one seed and adds little visual interest.

Grow globe amaranth in full sun after the last frost. It accepts sand, loam, clay, and chalk soils. RHS lists acid, neutral, and alkaline soils as suitable. Choose moderately fertile soil that drains well but retains moisture. Established plants cope with heat and periods of drought. Avoid giving them too much water. RHS rates its cold tolerance as H2; freezing kills it. NC State lists winter survival in USDA zones 9–11. Elsewhere, gardeners can grow it as a summer annual. Sow seed directly or start it indoors before planting out. Germination can be poor, so some seed may fail.

Use it in borders, rock gardens, pots, or edging. It also fits cottage gardens and beds for cut flowers. Deer tend to avoid it, and care needs are low. It needs no routine pruning. Serious pest and disease problems are uncommon. Taller plants may need support to stay upright. Mildew can affect plants under drought stress. Traditional uses include remedies for breathing problems and other ailments. People also use it in ceremonial garlands in Nepal.