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Gomphrena (Gomphrena globosa)
I have a weak spot for these very simple pops of colour,
with memories of buying them from markets wrapped
simply in newspaper. These are a small, bushy, annual
fl owering plants in the same botanical family as amaranth.
They don’t generally grow taller than 60cm and are often
used as border plants for cottage gardens or grown in pots.
They have simple, small pom-pom-like papery fl owers that
are often overlooked as a cut fl ower, although they are very
hardy and stems grow relatively straight. Dead-head
fl owers regularly to ensure continued blooming.Growing notes
Plant directly from seed or seedlings after the risk of frost
has passed. They do well in compost-rich but well-drained
soil, and like amaranth are relatively drought-tolerant
once established. Can also be grown as an annual in the
cooler months in the tropics.As cut fl owers
A great everyday fl ower: hardy in a vase; can also be
dried. Cut when the fl ower has fully formed.favourites
‘TallMixed’:canbeusedascutflowerordried.
‘DwarfCissyWhite’:Low-maintenance flower growing to 30cm.Left: A colourful gomphrena mix. PHOTOS: LENTIL PURBRICK/GAP.