Amaranthus
( am - ar - RANTH - us )
At-A-Glance InformationAmaranthus, commonly called Amarynth, is a genus of flowering annuals or short-lived perennials that takes full sun or partial shade and needs regular water. These can be coarse and sometimes weedy, but ornamental types are more attractive and are grown for their brightly colored foliage and flowers. Leaves and stems, if picked when young, can be used like spinach. Some species produce edible seeds that mimic sesame seeds and have a high protein content. The Aztecs consumed both the leaves and seeds of many species, but only three species are regularly consumed currently. They bloom from mid-summer through the first frost of the year and are great in mixed beds, on trellises or other structures, and as additions to edible gardens.
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Amaranthus Species and Varietals
There are about 75 species in the genus Amaranthus, which is a member of the family Amaranthaceae. The genus is named for the Greek words for 'unfading flower' (amarantos anthos). Although this multi-purpose plant is a fantastic addition to gardens, there are some species which have been identified as invasive in the United States and Canada: A. albus, A. blitoides, A. hybridus, A. palmeri, A. powellii, A. retroflexus, A. spinosus, A. tubercuatus, and A. viridis. These select species should be avoided when choosing a plant for the garden. Amaranthus grows best in zones 1-24, H1 and H2. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Amaranthus acanthochiton (Greenstripe) This annual species is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico at elevations between 1 thousand and 2 thousand feet. It is considered relatively rare, and is on some critically endangered lists in Utah and Arizona. This plant was used by the Hopi as a food source. It reaches between 4 and 30 inches in height, flowers are pale green, and leaves are slender and green. |
Amaranthus arenicola (Sand Amaranth, Sandhill Amaranth) This species is found in many areas in the United States and prefers sandy riverbeds, lakes, and fields. It is native to the central plains from Texas through South Dakota, and has been introduced to other areas, as well. It can reach 6.5 feet tall and has light green-yellow flowers. |
Amaranthus australis (Southern Amaranth, Southern Water-Hemp) This species reaches between 3 and 10 feet tall, and has been recorded reaching a height of 30 feet in its native habitat. It is found in many areas on the United States, Mexico, the West Indies, and South America. They prefer wetland habitats, and are relatively short lived perennials. |
Amaranthus californicus (California Amaranth) This annual species is native to most of the western United States and parts of Canada, and is at home in moist flats situated near bodies of water. At maturity, it reaches just 4-20 inches in length and has a sprawling, creeping habit. Flowers bloom from summer through fall. |
Amaranthus caudatus (Love-Lies-Bleeding, Tassel Flower, Pendant Amaranth, Velvet Flower, Foxtail Amaranth, Quilete) Sturdy, branching plant that gets 3-8 feet tall and 1.5-3 feet wide with large, light green leaves. Flowers are red, form in clusters that can reach 2 feet long, and contrast well against foliage. Produces high-protein seeds/grain. |
Amaranthus crassipes (Spreading Amaranth) Native to the southwestern United States, Mexico, the West Indies, and South America, this species grows to just 2 feet tall and has a spreading habit. It is mainly found in wet habitats or disturbed areas of soil. Flowers bloom in summer and fall. There are two varieties, Amaranthus crassipes crassipes and Amaranthus crassipes warnockii. |
Amaranthus dubius (Red Spinach, Chinese Spinach, Spleen Amaranth, Hon-toi-moi, Yin-choy, Hsein tsai, Arai keerai) Native to South America, Mexico, and the West Indies, this species has naturalized itself in many areas of the globe and is a food source for many people. It reaches between 2.5 and 4 feet tall and blooms throughout the year in temperate conditions. |
Amaranthus pumilis (Seaside Amaranth, Seabeach Amaranth) This threatened species of Amaranth is an annual and is native to the eastern coast of the United States. It is now gone from 2/3 its natural range due to habitat loss and human recreational activities. These plants have low, prostrate stems and leaves, and can stretch out to about 3 feet wide. Flowers are insignificant, but the plant produces many seeds in July. Luckily, seeds can stay dormant for very long periods of time, giving this species a fighting chance to stay alive. |
Amaranthus tricolor (Amaranthus gangeticus) (Joseph's Coat, Edible Amaranth, Bireum, Tampala, Tandaljo, Tandalja bhaji)
Native to southeast Asia, this plant has a branching habit and reaches between 1-4 feet tall and 1-1.5 feet wide. Leaves are blotched with shades of red and green. Green-leaved strains are commonly used as spinach substitutes. Popularly grown varieties are listed and described below.
Native to southeast Asia, this plant has a branching habit and reaches between 1-4 feet tall and 1-1.5 feet wide. Leaves are blotched with shades of red and green. Green-leaved strains are commonly used as spinach substitutes. Popularly grown varieties are listed and described below.
Caring for Amaranthus
Amaranth is sometimes difficult to find in garden centers; the seeds are more widely available than transplants. If you are growing from seed, follow the instructions below in the Propagation section on this page. These easy-care plants thrive in bright sunlight, so choose a corresponding spot in your yard that receives this exposure. They love moist but well-draining soil that has equal phosphorus and nitrogen content. They do well in neutral soil, though some species are adapted to a more acidic soil. They do not need much pruning, as even the dried flower stems provide interest and color to landscapes. The stalks can also be cut off the plant and dried to be used in arrangements, if desired. Because of their tall flower spikes, these plants may need to be staked to avoid them flopping over under their own weight.
How to Harvest Amaranth
Both the leaves and seeds of the Amaranth plant can be harvested for consumption. Leaves can be harvested at any time, though they are more palatable if harvested before the plant flowers; the youngest leaves are more tender and the older more developed leaves are more flavorful. The leaves can be used like spinach, for salads or soups. To harvest the seeds of the Amaranth plant, the plant needs to be allowed to come to flower. Allow the flowers to stay on the plant, providing good amounts of water until the first flowers begin to brown. At this time, cut the entire spike off the plant and hang it upside down in a cool, dry place, or place them in paper bags. Let the entire flower spike dry before harvesting. Beat the flowers inside of a bag to release the grain, and then separate them from the flower petals using water. The seed-grain can then be used either boiled or popped. To boil, combine 1 cup of Amaranth seeds with 2.5 cups of water (or three cups for a more porridge-like consistency), and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, and let simmer for about 20 minutes. It can be eaten like Quinoa or Buckwheat. To pop the Amaranth seeds, preheat a pot or skillet over high heat until it is very hot. then, add the seeds 1-2 tablespoons at a time (if you add them all at once, they are more likely to burn). Once most of the seeds have popped, remove them from the heat and serve. You can eat them plain, or serve them with milk and fruit for a harvest-style breakfast.
How to Harvest Amaranth
Both the leaves and seeds of the Amaranth plant can be harvested for consumption. Leaves can be harvested at any time, though they are more palatable if harvested before the plant flowers; the youngest leaves are more tender and the older more developed leaves are more flavorful. The leaves can be used like spinach, for salads or soups. To harvest the seeds of the Amaranth plant, the plant needs to be allowed to come to flower. Allow the flowers to stay on the plant, providing good amounts of water until the first flowers begin to brown. At this time, cut the entire spike off the plant and hang it upside down in a cool, dry place, or place them in paper bags. Let the entire flower spike dry before harvesting. Beat the flowers inside of a bag to release the grain, and then separate them from the flower petals using water. The seed-grain can then be used either boiled or popped. To boil, combine 1 cup of Amaranth seeds with 2.5 cups of water (or three cups for a more porridge-like consistency), and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, and let simmer for about 20 minutes. It can be eaten like Quinoa or Buckwheat. To pop the Amaranth seeds, preheat a pot or skillet over high heat until it is very hot. then, add the seeds 1-2 tablespoons at a time (if you add them all at once, they are more likely to burn). Once most of the seeds have popped, remove them from the heat and serve. You can eat them plain, or serve them with milk and fruit for a harvest-style breakfast.
Propagation
Propagation of Amaranth plants is best done via seed. To complete this method, you'll need Amaranth seeds (for directions on how to harvest Amaranth seeds, see the above section under 'How to Harvest Amaranth'), well-draining soil, a pot or seed tray, and a spray bottle filled with water. Once you've gathered your materials, follow the directions below:
- About 6-8 weeks before the last frost of your area will pass, prepare your pots or trays with well-draining potting soil. Place your Amaranth seeds on top of the soil, and cover with between a half inch and an inch more of potting soil. Water your seeds using the spray bottle, being careful not to uncover them. Place your pot or tray in a spot that receives bright, indirect light and stays around a temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
- You should begin to see your seeds sprout in around a week. Once they have sprouted and grown a few inches tall, they should be spaced about 8 inches apart. Continue to provide water until the last frost of your area has passed, and then transplant your seedlings to their designated spot in the garden.
Problems and Pests
The common issues affecting Amaranth plants include the following:
- Athracnose
- Damping-Off
- Wet Rock
- Pigweed Weevil
Gallery
Videos
A great video about Amaranthus caudatus.
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How to grow Amaranthus plants in your garden.
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How to harvest Amaranth plants.
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Growing, harvesting, storing, and consuming Amaranthus.
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 149, Amaranthus
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