Name:  Gomphrena globosa ‘Fireworks’ – commonly called fireworks gomphrena.

Type of Plant: An annual that is great in cutting gardens, annual flower beds or mixed into perennial gardens. It’s a plant that’s available in pots at garden centers in the early summer, or you can start your own because it’s easily grown from seed. Grow this annual in full sun and well-drained soils.

Why I Love This: This Gomphrena grows about three feet tall and wide – the round, bright pink flowers are at the end of long skinny stems, so it’s a bit light and airy although bright and showy. The flowers dry well, and last a long time in bouquets so it’s almost a must-grow plant if you like to bring flowers into the house or give bunches away.

A Word to the Wise: Water deeply once a week and when the plant is young shear a couple of times with scissors, or promptly clip off first set of developing flowers in order to promote bushiness. Like many annuals, the more you clip the fuller the plant becomes.

This past year I planted Annual Alley with a variety of six pack varieties along with others such as Gomphrena Fireworks that I grew from seed. I love the way the round pink flowers of the Gomphrena contrast with the spiky red salvia.