SafePlants

Purple Amaranth: A Colorful and Versatile Plant

Purple Amaranth, scientifically known as Amaranthus cruentus, is a striking plant with several common names including blood amaranth, red amaranth, prince's feather, and Mexican grain amaranth. It's a plant known for its vibrant colors and multiple uses, from ornamental gardens to edible leaves and seeds.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions the plant produces seeds. Small seeds might pose a potential choking hazard, particularly for small pets.

Considerations for Children

• The plant grows to a height of 6-8 feet, which could be a consideration for young children in a garden setting.
• The text notes that some varieties have "fuzzy-looking spires," which may be interesting to children but should be observed to ensure no irritation occurs from contact.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Amaranthus cruentus
• Family: Amaranthaceae
• Synonyms:
  • A. hybridus cruentus
  • Amaranthus paniculatus

Distribution and Habitat

• The plant is native to tropical America.
• It is cultivated in various parts of the world, including South America and Japan.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Purple Amaranth can grow to a height of 6-8 feet.
• It features purplish-red flower spires in the summer, followed by red, purple, or yellow seed heads.
• Some varieties have hairy stems and long spikes of red or purple flowers.

Uses

• Edible Leaves: The young leaves are edible and can be used in stir-fries or blanched. The leaves can be green, variegated green and red, or streaked with purple.
• Edible Seeds: The seeds are used as a grain or ground into flour.
• Ornamental: The plant is grown for its striking red-purple flower heads.

Quirky Facts

• In Mexico, it is known as Huautli and Alegria.
• The seeds can be brewed into a type of "booze," although details are limited in the text.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Sowing purple-leaved cultivars simplifies weeding.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for gardening tips and ideas.
• The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides information on Amaranthus cruentus.