Botanical Name: Gomphrena globosa ‘Gnome Purple’

Common Name: Gomphrena, Globe Amaranth

Hardiness Zone: Annual in Most Climates

Size: 12–16" Tall × 10–14" Spread

Growth Habit: Compact, Mounded, Well-Branched Habit

Sunlight: Full Sun

Soil: Prefers Well-Drained Soil; Tolerates Poor or Sandy Soils

Water Needs: Low to Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established

Bloom Season: Late Spring through Frost

Fertilizer: Minimal; Avoid Excess Nitrogen

Features: Rich Purple Button-Like Flowers, Excellent Heat and Drought Tolerance, Long-Lasting Blooms, Pollinator Friendly 

Uses: Ideal for Containers, Borders, Mass Plantings, Pollinator Gardens, and Cut or Dried Flowers

Patent: ❌ Not Patented

Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed

More About Gomphrena ‘Gnome Purple’

Gomphrena ‘Gnome Purple’ is a dependable summer annual prized for its vivid purple, clover-like flower heads that hold their color through intense heat. The papery blooms sit atop sturdy stems and remain attractive for weeks, even in hot, dry conditions where many flowering plants struggle.

This compact selection stays tidy and well-branched, making it easy to use in containers or tight garden spaces. The flowers continue appearing nonstop from late spring until frost, with no deadheading required.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Gnome Purple’ has been exceptionally reliable during hot, dry summers. It establishes quickly, maintains a neat mounded shape, and continues flowering when other annuals slow down.

We especially appreciate its versatility. It works beautifully in mixed containers, as a front-of-border plant, or in mass plantings where the repeated purple blooms create strong visual rhythm. Bees and butterflies visit regularly, and the flowers are excellent for fresh or dried arrangements.

Gomphrena ‘Gnome Purple’ vs. Other Gomphrena

Compared to taller gomphrena varieties, ‘Gnome Purple’ offers a more compact and controlled habit, making it ideal for containers and smaller beds. While taller types excel in cutting gardens, this variety shines in everyday landscape use.

When compared to other heat-tolerant annuals, gomphrena stands out for its exceptional drought tolerance and long-lasting blooms. For gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, sun-loving annual with bold color and excellent durability, Gomphrena ‘Gnome Purple’ is a top-tier choice.