The rainbow of bright foliage and tall, erect habit of this glorious Summer Poinsettia (Amaranthus) make it a garden standout even in the back of the border. The upper foliagea brilliant display of scarlet and yellowtops the base of yellow, green, and chocolate-brown, as if a lovely bloom had been set atop a brightly-colored plant. No two plants will show exactly the same color patterning, so be sure to plant several and enjoy the differences.

Perfecta is a somewhat narrow, column-shaped plant that reaches 4 feet tall and just 12 to 18 inches wide in the sun-soaked garden. Not afraid of damp soils, it is a good choice for waterside plantings, and combines beautifully with summer-blooming annuals and perennials. And few sights are as stunning as an Amaranthus garden, with its amazing display of color and form. Try combining Perfecta with yellow-leaved Illumination.

It’s easy to see why Amaranthus is called Summer Poinsettia, with i