Gomphrena globosa aka Bachelor's Button

Taxonomy

Gomphrena globosa, also known as globe amaranth or bachelor button, is an edible plant belonging to the family Amaranthaceae. This beautiful summer flower is native to Central America, including Brazil, Panama, and Guatemala, but is now grown worldwide. It is an upright, bushy annual with oblong leaves covered in white hair when young. The plant blooms continuously throughout summer and early fall, producing spherical flower heads composed of papery bracts in shades of magenta, purple, red, orange, white, pink, and lilac. These flowerheads, approximately 4cm long, are visually dominant and are good for cutting. Gomphrena globosa is heat tolerant, fairly drought resistant, and grows best in full sun and regular moisture. It can reach a height of up to 24 inches. This plant fixes carbon through the C4 pathway and is pollinated by butterflies, bees, and other insects. Its floral volatiles likely play a significant role in attracting pollinators. While it is a popular and hardy species, it is important to note that it is invasive in certain regions such as Cuba, Hawaii, and Costa Rica.

Common names

Bachelor's Button, Globe Amaranth, Common Globe Amaranth

How to care for Bachelor's Button

Difficulty

Caring for Bachelor's Button is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Bachelor's Button should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Bachelor's Button loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Bachelor's Button requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Globe Amaranth is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The Bachelor's Button should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia