SafePlants

Amaranthus dubius: Spleen Amaranth

Amaranthus dubius, commonly known as Spleen Amaranth, is a versatile plant appreciated for its nutritional value and culinary uses. It is also referred to as Chinese spinach (xin cai in pinyin), Hon-toi-moi, or aria keerai. In the Philippines, it is known as kalunay or kulitis.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Amaranthus dubius
• Family: Amaranthaceae
• Synonyms: A. tristis, A. hybridus, A. chlorostachys, A. erythrostachys, A. patulus

Considerations for Pets

• Spleen Amaranth is sometimes considered a weedy plant.

Distribution and Habitat

Spleen Amaranth is native to Asia, Africa, and Europe. It is also native to South America, Mexico and the West Indies, although it has since been introduced elsewhere. It is widely cultivated as a green leafy vegetable, particularly in Africa and South Asia. It can be found in various regions, including Northeastern coastal forests, Magdalena-Urab moist forests, Atlantic mixed forests, and Western European broadleaf forests.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Amaranthus dubius is an annual herb that typically grows to a height of 1 meter (3 feet 3 inches).
• It is frost-tender.
• Leaves emerge around April 10th.
• Flowering occurs from July to September, with seeds ripening from August onwards.
• Some varieties have extra-large leaves.

Ecological Role

In some areas, Spleen Amaranth is considered a weedy plant, indicating its ability to self-seed and spread readily.

Traditional Uses and Benefits

• The plant is sometimes cultivated in tropical regions for its edible leaves.
• The leaves are rich in fiber, iron, and calcium.
• In traditional medicine, it has been associated with treatments for rheumatism, paralysis, tremors, and Kapha and Vata disorders.

Quirky Facts

• Spleen Amaranth is known by a variety of names across different cultures and languages, reflecting its widespread use and cultivation. Some of these names include "kalunay" or "kulitis" in the Philippines and "xin cai" in Chinese.

Further Information

• Encyclopedia of Life: Provides comprehensive information on Amaranthus dubius.
• Discover Life: Offers details about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of the plant.
• Plants of Hawaii: Features images and information for Amaranthus dubius.
• Dave's Garden: A community forum where gardeners share tips and ideas.