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sandhill amaranth
Scientific Name: Amaranthus arenicola
Family: Amaranthaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Amaranthus arenicola: Sand Amaranth or Sandhill Amaranth
Amaranthus arenicola, commonly known as sand amaranth or sandhill amaranth, is a plant species found in many states of the contiguous United States.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Amaranthus arenicola I.M. Johnston
- Common Names: Sand amaranth, sandhill amaranth, sandhills amaranth.
- Family: Amaranthaceae (Amaranth or Pigweed Family)
- Synonyms:
- Amaranthus torreyi auct. non (A. Gray) Benth. ex S. Watson
- Amaranthus graecizans L. var. pubescens Uline & Bray
- Derivation: arenicola - growing in sandy places
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to Texas and other states within the contiguous United States.
- Grows in sandy places.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Described as an annual herb or a short-lived perennial plant.
- Classified as a forb/herb, which is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
- Small in size, reaching up to 60 cm.
- It can cover the land at its disposal.
Ecological Role
- Some sources indicate it is a non-native species.
- Dioecious species have resistance via genetic recombination.
Traditional Uses
- Amaranth grains are toasted much like popcorn and mixed with honey or molasses to make a treat.
- Culturally, the amaranth flower has been used as a symbol of immortality.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Seeds, leaves, stems, and roots can be eaten.
Further Information
- Discover Life offers information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution.
- USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database contains information on the species.