SafePlants

Amaranthus brownii: Brown's Amaranth

Amaranthus brownii, commonly known as Brown's amaranth, is an annual or short-lived perennial herb. Some species of amaranth are cultivated as leaf vegetables and pseudocereals. The plant is a forb/herb, meaning it is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that some amaranth species are cultivated as leaf vegetables, so animals might be attracted to graze on the plant.
• The seeds of weedy pigweed (amaranth) are lens-shaped and dark brown or black, which might be a choking hazard or cause digestive upset if ingested by pets.

Considerations for Children

• The seeds are small and dark brown or black, which might be attractive to young children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Amaranthus brownii Christoph. & Caum
• Common Names: Brown's amaranth. Other amaranth species are referred to as: California amaranth, African amaranth, African spinach, alegra, amarante, pigweed.
• Family: Amaranthaceae

Distribution and Habitat

• The text indicates that Amaranthus is a cosmopolitan genus, suggesting a widespread distribution.
• References to "Sandhill Amaranth" and "Seaside Amaranth" indicate the plant may inhabit such environments.

Morphological Characteristics

• Amaranthus brownii is described as a forb/herb, which is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
• The seeds are lens-shaped and can be dark brown or black.
• Amaranth species exhibit a wide variety of morphological characteristics.

Traditional Uses

• Amaranth grains are toasted and mixed with honey or molasses to make a treat.

Ecological Role

• Pigweed, also known as amaranth, has wild and weedy varieties.

Quirky Facts

• The amaranth flower has been used as a symbol of immortality.
• Dye extracted from boiling the leaves produced soft browns and beiges.

Further Information

• GBIF view on Amaranthus
• Dave's Garden is referenced as a friendly community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.