Wood Amaranth
Iresine rhizomatosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–36" H × 24"–36" W
Bloom
Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, FL, IL, KY and 6 more states
Pollinators
butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Wood Amaranth is a native Texas perennial that forms a neat, rounded clump with attractive foliage and small clusters of flowers. It blooms from September through November, providing late-season color when many other plants are finishing for the year. The plant goes dormant in winter but returns reliably each spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wood Amaranth is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
This plant supports butterflies with its late-season blooms, providing important nectar when other food sources are becoming scarce in fall.
Common questions
- How much sun does Wood Amaranth need?
- Wood Amaranth grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Wood Amaranth bloom?
- Wood Amaranth blooms in September, October, and November.
- Where is Wood Amaranth native?
- Wood Amaranth (Iresine rhizomatosa) is native to AL, FL, IL, KY and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Wood Amaranth attract?
- Wood Amaranth draws butterflies.
- Is Wood Amaranth HOA-friendly?
- Wood Amaranth is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Wood Amaranth fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.