Love Lies Bleeding is a striking ornamental plant known for its dramatic, cascading crimson flower tassels. Perfect for cutting gardens and dramatic backdrops, it’s heat-tolerant, easy to grow, and brings a bold, vintage flair to summer landscapes.

Quick Facts

• Botanical name: Amaranthus caudatus

• Common names: Love Lies Bleeding, Tassel Flower, Drooping Amaranth

• Plant type: Annual

• Days to maturity: 65–75 days

• Height: 3–5 feet

• Sun exposure: Full sun

• Hardiness zones: USDA 2–11 (grown as annual)

• Spacing: 12–15 inches apart

When to Plant

• Spring (outdoors): Direct sow after the last frost when soil is warm.

• Spring (indoors): Start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost date.

• Germination time: 7–10 days at 70–75°F (21–24°C)

How to Plant

1. Soil preparation: Use well-draining soil enriched with compost. Tolerates poor soils but thrives in fertile ground.

2. Sowing depth: Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep; light enhances germination.

3. Thinning: Once seedlings are 3–4 inches tall, thin to 12–15 inches apart.

4. Watering: Keep soil moderately moist during germination; once established, it’s drought-tolerant.

Growing Tips

• Stake plants if grown in windy areas or if flower heads become too heavy.

• Avoid overfertilizing—too much nitrogen can reduce flower production.

• Cut flowers regularly to encourage more blooming.

• Works well in borders, containers, or as a focal point in mixed beds.

Harvesting

• For fresh arrangements: Cut when tassels are long but still firm.

• For dried use: Hang stems upside down in a dry, shaded area for 1–2 weeks.

• Seeds are also edible, though most varieties are grown ornamentally.

Companion Plants

Pairs well with sunflowers, cosmos, zinnias, and ornamental grasses. Adds texture and color contrast in summer floral displays.

Why Grow Love Lies Bleeding?

This dramatic heirloom flower adds unmatched vertical interest and color to the garden. It’s easy to grow, tolerates heat and drought, and makes a stunning addition to bouquets, both fresh and dried.