Amaranthus

Q. I have a plant that someone gave me and they didn't know the real name but called it a summer poinsettia. It grew to approximately 2 to 3 feet high and its leaves are green yellow and red.  When the plant was smaller the leaves were purple and then turned to yellow and red.  I thought that it may belong to the hosta variety but could not find anything about it.  I would appreciate any help that you may give me.

A. You have Amaranthus tricolor 'Joseph's Coat'' which has red yellow and green bracts. There are about 60 species and the care is similar. Zones 8-11.

It grows to 48" height 30" width best in full sun. Has brilliant foliage which appears to be flowers but are actually modified bracts [leaves]. They resemble the winter-flowering poinsettia thus the common name.

Amaranthus hypochondriacus has pink-colored bracts while Amaranthus caudatus has bright red ones. Zones 8-11.

Sow directly in garden after last frost 1/4"-1/2" deep. Season length is 60 days flowering often begins earlier. Water seedlings well but then grow on the dry side after established. Add manure to the soil in the spring. Pinch the small branches when young to encourage bushy growth.

This is a strong plant able to survive many different soil conditions but provide fertile well-drained soil mulched 2" deep in a hot and sunny location.

Watch for snails caterpillars and aphids. Treat appropriately.

Harvest seed heads at or after the first frost for next year's crop. Shake to determine if seeds are loose. Dry seed heads until brittle then remove stems by putting them in a bag and walking on them. Remove chaff by crumbling them or screening them in front of a fan.