Gomphrena globosa

Name and publication

Gomphrena globosa L., Sp. Pl. 1: 224 (1753).

Description

The subglobular to globular inflorescences of the globe-amaranth are sold in the potpourri trade as “globe flowers” or “sun centers” and often used to manufacture more elaborate flowers with the pith of Aeschynomene aspera. The heads, 1-3 cm long x 1-2 cm wide, are sometimes provided with papery bracts at the base. The native color may be cream or various shades of pink to red but are later bleached and/or dyed.

Nativity and distribution

Gomphrena globosa is native to South Asia but widely cultivated.

Family

Amaranthaceae, also placed in Chenopodiaceae