Verbena bonariensis (Brazilian verbena)

Self-seeding annual (comes back from seed), full sun. Intricate clusters of purple blooms atop tall, upright stems. Blooms early summer right on through late fall. Wonderful accent plant. Excellent intermingled with veggies as its leafless stems don’t cast any shade. Scatter seeds in fall and winter for more volunteers.

Hopi Dye Red Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus ‘Hopi dye red’)

Self-seeding annual (comes back from seed), full sun, edible leaves. Deep burgundy plumes resembling dreadlocks with leaves of the same color. Flowers used as a ceremonial and food dye by the Hopi Indians. This plant was one of the best investments I’ve ever made! I purchased one in 2007 and it has generously returned each year from self-sown seed; often in brilliant places I would have never thought of myself. Has become an important staple of my fall late summer and fall display. If given the space it can grown up to 4-5 feet tall; in tight spots it stays compact.

Hot biscuits Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus ‘Hot biscuits’)

Self-seeding annual (comes back from seed), full sun, edible leaves. Like Hopi Dye Red Amaranth but with burnt orange spiky flowers. A wonderful addition to the fall garden. Reaches 4-5 feet if given the space.

Molten Fire Amaranth (Amaranthus ‘Molten Fire’)

Self-seeding annual (comes back from seed), full sun, edible leaves. 3-toned plant with maroon leaves and firey crimson rosettes. A highly ornamental edible. Colorful leaves can be tossed into salads. Grows to 4 feet.

Amaranth ‘Pygmy Torch’ (Amaranthus hypochondriacus)