Love-lies-bleeding (Amaranthus caudatus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Love-lies-bleeding on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Amaranthaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 4 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Love-lies-bleeding
Amaranthus caudatus, commonly known as Love-Lies-Bleeding or Foxtail Amaranth, is a striking annual plant renowned for its long, pendulous, rope-like inflorescences in vibrant crimson or pale green. Its leaves, which can be green or reddish, are edible and nutritious. This plant is perfect for adding dramatic color and texture to flower beds, borders, or as a focal point in cottage or wild gardens.
Native range
South America, particularly in the Andean region of Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia.
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun for optimal flowering and intense inflorescence color. Watering should be regular, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells, though it toler tolerates some drought once established. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. A common mistake is planting it in partial shade, which leads to sparse blooming and weak stems.
How to save a dying Love-lies-bleeding
- Warning signs
- Drooping, withered, discolored leaves. Soft or dry stems. Lack of flowering or wilted flowers.
- First aid
- Check watering: if dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, drain and improve soil. Ensure good indirect light.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot or complete lack of water. Dense shade also weakens it greatly.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and some firm stems remain. Act quickly.