Globe amaranth (Gomphrena globosa 'Buddy Rose')
Discover Gomphrena globosa 'Buddy Rose', the compact Globe amaranth, perfect for low maintenance, hot, sunny borders and everlasting dried arrangements.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’, known widely as Globe amaranth, is a standout choice for gardeners seeking vibrant, season-long color with minimal fuss. This compact annual provides continuous rose-colored, clover-like flowerheads that are extremely heat tolerant, thriving where other annuals might wilt. Its appeal lies in its cheerful texture and durability throughout the hottest months, lasting reliably from June until the first frost arrives.
The true value of Globe amaranth, and specifically the smaller ‘Buddy Rose’ cultivar, is seen in its unique flower structure. What appears as the bloom is actually a mass of papery, brightly colored bracts surrounding insignificant true flowers. This structure makes plants like Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’ inherently resilient and excellent for use in fresh arrangements or drying for everlasting bouquets.
As a low-maintenance annual, this Globe amaranth offers exceptional bang for the effort invested. It establishes easily, handles poor soils better than many garden favorites, and serves beautifully in mass plantings, containers, or as an impactful edger. Incorporating Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’ ensures continuous garden interest and a reliable harvest for autumnal crafts.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Amaranthaceae
- Plant Type: Annual
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 2-11
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 0.75-1 ft
- Spread: 0.75-1 ft
- Bloom Time: June to frost
- Bloom Description: Rose
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
Sow the seed of your Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’ directly into the garden once all danger of frost has passed. Since germination rates can sometimes be low, use a generous hand with the seed. For gardeners eager for early color, starting seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last expected frost date is recommended. If starting indoors, transplant purchased seedlings or your own starts out only after the weather has warmed reliably.
Once established, this Globe amaranth prefers average, well-drained soil conditions, though mature plants exhibit surprising drought resistance. While they tolerate dry spells, ensure regular moisture, especially during peak summer heat, for the best overall performance and bloom density. These plants possess extremely good heat tolerance, making them reliable performers during intense summer conditions.
Maintenance is straightforward. Although the plant is somewhat forgiving, pinching young Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’ plants back lightly will encourage a bushier, more compact habit, which is ideal for this dwarf series. Taller varieties may occasionally require staking, but the ‘Buddy’ series stays relatively short, limiting this need. No complex feeding routine is generally required for success.
Landscape Uses
Globe amaranth varieties are exceptionally versatile in landscape design due to their sturdy nature and continuous bloom cycle. They perform wonderfully when planted in borders, providing a low, colorful accent edge that doesn’t sprawl. Because they require full sun and tolerate dryness, they integrate seamlessly into rock gardens where drainage is sharp and soil moisture fluctuates.
For cutting gardens, this plant yields long-lasting material, complementing taller flowers effectively. If space is limited, Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’ is an excellent choice for containers or annual beds, offering structure and bright color contrast against deep green foliage. Their need for consistent heat means they are a perfect anchor plant for sun-drenched patio displays throughout the summer season.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Good Cut
- Good Dried
Noteworthy Characteristics
Gomphrena globosa, commonly called globe amaranth, is a compact annual that typically grows 12-24” tall on upright branching stems. The true flowers are insignificant, tiny, white to yellow trumpets that are only visible close up; it is the bright rose-colored bracts arranged in globose, papery-textured, clover-like flowerheads that provide the real show in a long summer to frost bloom. The Buddy Series of dwarf, mounded annuals includes ‘Buddy Rose’, offering rich rose flowers in clover-like flowerheads from late spring to mid-fall. This reliable annual retains its color exceptionally well, making it an excellent choice for drying.
Tolerances
- Drought
- Clay Soil
- Dry Soil
Potential Problems
This variety displays impressive resistance to major insect or disease issues, which contributes significantly to its low maintenance rating. The greatest concerns usually arise from cultural stress. Mildew might appear, particularly if plants become severely drought-stressed or are situated in prolonged shade or poor air circulation. Ensure good garden airflow and maintain consistent, though not excessive, watering to prevent fungal outbreaks. Taller cultivars may require staking, but the dwarf nature of Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’ largely negates this need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Globe amaranth suitable for?
Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’ is reliably hardy across a very wide range, thriving in USDA Zones 2 through 11 as an annual.
How large does Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’ grow?
This specific cultivar is commendably compact, typically reaching heights and spreads between 0.75 and 1 foot tall and wide.
What sun exposure does the Globe amaranth need?
For the best performance, vibrant rose blooms, and strong structure, this plant must be sited in conditions receiving full sun throughout the day.
When does Globe amaranth bloom?
You can expect the showy rose flowerheads of the Globe amaranth to appear consistently from June straight through until the arrival of the first killing frost.
Conclusion
Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’ is invaluable for gardeners needing steadfast, bright color in the toughest, hottest spots of the garden. Its low water needs once established and its famous use as a durable, everlasting flower make this Globe amaranth a foundational summer annual. Check your local frost dates and plan to incorporate this hardy, rose-blooming variety for reliable texture from spring well into fall.
Companion Planting
Selecting companions that share the love for full sun and well-drained soil will maximize the aesthetic impact of your Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’. Consider pairing it with other heat-loving, drought-tolerant performers like zinnias, portulaca (moss rose), or silver-leafed dusty miller. These combinations create rich visual texture while ensuring everyone in the arrangement has similar care requirements.
For a cottage garden feel, interplant the low-growing ‘Buddy Rose’ with upright spikes like salvia or celosia that bloom simultaneously. Since Globe amaranth is excellent for cutting, planting it near structural elements or along pathways ensures easy access for harvest throughout the season.
Design Ideas
The dwarf, mounding habit of Gomphrena globosa ‘Buddy Rose’ makes it perfect for edging formal beds or softening the transition between hardscaping and taller plantings. In mixed containers, use it as a filler or a slightly trailing element around the rim; its papery flowers contrast wonderfully with soft, trailing foliage like sweet potato vine.
Because it handles clay and dry soil well, utilize this plant in challenging slopes or foundation plantings where moisture retention is unpredictable. The rose coloration of ‘Buddy Rose’ works well adjacent to blues, purples, or bright whites for high-impact summer displays that require very little intervention after planting.
