The Dramatic Allure of Dried Hanging Amaranthus for Floral Design

The Allure of Dried Hanging Amaranthus

Dried hanging amaranthus brings an exotic elegance to floral arrangements with its cascade of slender burgundy foliage. This unique greenery stands out with its striking color and delicate wispy texture, making it a beautiful complement to all sorts of bouquets and centerpieces.

The Origins of Amaranthus

Amaranthus, commonly known as amaranth or pigweed, encompasses around 60 different species of annual and short-lived perennial plants in the Amaranthaceae family. Many amaranth varieties are considered weeds, but just as many are cultivated as leaf vegetables, cereals, and ornamental plants.

The name amaranth comes from the Greek word amaranton, meaning "unfading." This refers to the long-lasting flowers of many amaranth species, which can retain their vibrant color for months after being picked.

Growing Conditions for Amaranthus

Amaranth thrives in warm temperatures and full sun. It requires well-drained yet moist soil that is rich in organic matter. Once established, amaranth is fairly drought-resistant due to its origination in tropical regions.

Amaranth can be grown from seed indoors in early spring and transplanted outside after the danger of frost has passed. For best results, thin seedlings so plants are 12-18 inches apart. Amaranth left thickly planted may be prone to mold or fungus.

Cultivating Amaranthus for Cut Flowers

Many amaranth varieties make stunning cut flowers. Species such as Amaranthus caudatus and Amaranthus hybridus are grown and harvested specifically for their long-lasting blooms and enticing foliage.

To grow amaranth for cut flowers, plant outdoors after the last expected frost when soil temperatures reach at least 65°F. Choose a site with well-drained soil in full sun. Cut amaranth stems once foliage has reached its mature size and shape.

Condition fresh-cut amaranth stems as you would other flowers by stripping leaves that would fall below the water line and placing stems in warm water. Amaranth often drinks heavily at first, so be sure to keep water levels high.

Drying Amaranthus for Lasting Beauty

One of the best qualities of amaranth as a decorative foliage is that it holds its stunning color and draping shape when dried. Dried amaranth stems can last for years in floral arrangements or other displays.

Timing the Harvest

Harvest amaranth for drying in mid summer to early fall after plants have reached full size. Look for stems with fully developed foliage in rich, mature hues ranging from red to purple.

The best time for cutting is usually mid morning after any dew has evaporated but before the heat of the afternoon sun hastens transpiration. Be sure to make clean cuts with very sharp shears or scissors.

Air Drying works Best

Amaranth stems dry beautifully when hung to air dry. Choose a dark, dust-free space with ample airflow and low humidity. Hang bundles of amaranth upside down to maintain color through the curing process.

Depending on humidity levels, air drying can take 1-4 weeks. To test for dryness, check some of the thicker stems to ensure they snap cleanly.

Preserving Shape and Color

Certain steps when harvesting and drying amaranth will help retain vivid color and delicate shape of the foliage and flowers:

• Cut stems when foliage looks its best
• Remove any leaves or blooms that would sit in water
• Use a hydrating solution to prolong bloom life
• Hang bundles loosely in a dark, dry area
• Allow 1-4 weeks for thorough drying

With proper drying techniques, the slender grace and dazzling tones of amaranth create unforgettable texture and movement in floral décor for years to come.

Dramatic Displays with Dried Hanging Amaranthus

When used in arrangements, wreaths, and garlands, hanging dried amaranthus stems make a big visual impact. The sweeping burgundy foliage and flowers create an elegant, exotic look evoking tropical locales.

Wedding Bouquets and Centerpieces

Dried amaranthus brings a striking color and fluid shape that pairs beautifully with roses, orchids, and other popular wedding flowers. clusters of hanging amaranthus stems can cascade from hand-tied or trailing bouquets layered with lace and pearls.

Nestle sprays of amaranth into lush centerpiece designs for pops of rich fall hues and airy texture. Intermingle the dangling stems with branches, seed pods, berries and blooms for seasonal style.

Wreaths and Garlands

The long, slender foliage of dried amaranthus was made for wreaths and garlands. Layer the flexible stems into holiday or everyday wreath designs along with dried hydrangea, eucalyptus, magnolia leaves and more.

For mantels, staircases, and doorways, fashion garlands from gracefully curving amaranthus stems embellished with ribbon, ornaments, and pine cones. Shape garlands into swooping swags or straight lines for perfect presentation.

Everlasting Arrangements

Create permanent floral arrangements by combining air-dried amaranthus with other dried botanicals like baby’s breath, strawflowers, statice, and globe amaranth. Display your preserved bouquet in a vase or hang it as wall art for years of enjoyment.

The slender draping foliage, rosy hues, and lasting beauty of dried hanging amaranthus allow designers to craft breathtaking wedding flowers and home décor pieces that will never fade away.

FAQs

What are the best conditions for growing amaranth as a cut flower?

Amaranth thrives when grown in full sun and moist, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Start seeds indoors and transplant outside after danger of frost has passed. Space plants 12-18 inches apart and water during dry periods.

When is the best time to harvest amaranthus for drying?

Harvest amaranth stems for drying in mid summer to early fall, when foliage has reached its maximum size and richest colors. Cut in the morning after dew evaporates for optimal freshness.

How long does it take to fully dry amaranthus stems?

Properly dried amaranthus takes 1-4 weeks when hung bundled in a dark, dry area with ample airflow. Check thicker stems to ensure they snap crisply before considering them cured.

What other dried flowers pair well with hanging amaranthus?

Dried amaranthus looks beautiful when arranged with dried hydrangea, baby’s breath, strawflowers, statice, globe amaranth and more in floral designs and permanent botanical displays.