No images found for this plant ID: 1834.

Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "1834" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.

Safe for Children?

Safe for Dogs?

Safe for Cats?

Safe for Reptiles?

slim amaranth

Scientific Name: Amaranthus hybridus

Family: Amaranthaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Amaranthus hybridus: A Detailed Overview

Amaranthus hybridus, a member of the Amaranthaceae family, is commonly known as green amaranth, slim amaranth, smooth amaranth, smooth pigweed, or red amaranth. This annual plant, sometimes referred to by the nickname "Female Finger," has captured attention in various contexts, from culinary uses to ecological considerations.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant can grow wild in cultivated fields.

Considerations for Children

  • This plant can grow wild in cultivated fields.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Amaranthus hybridus L.
  • Common Names: Green Amaranth, Slim Amaranth, Smooth Amaranth, Smooth Pigweed, Red Amaranth, Green Pigweed, Wild Cabbage.
  • Family: Amaranthaceae (Amaranth Family)
  • Synonyms: Amaranthus chlorostachys, Amaranthus incurvatus, Amaranthus patulus Bertol. Other synonyms include Amaranthus chlorostachys auct., Amaranthus erythrostachys (as seen in German and Hungarian translations).

Distribution and Habitat

  • The origin of Amaranthus hybridus is uncertain, but it now grows wild in cultivated fields and waste places.
  • It has been introduced to California and is found in various locations, including South Africa (where it's known as "marog").
  • Its distribution extends to regions such as South Korea (where it's known as Hoso-aogeitou Himeshirobiyu).

Morphological Characteristics

  • Amaranthus hybridus is an annual plant that typically grows up to 2 meters (6ft 7in) in height.

Ecological Role

  • It can be considered an invasive weed in some areas, such as alongside Amaranthus retroflexus (redroot amaranth).

Traditional Uses

  • In South Africa, it is called "marog" and is eaten as a spinach.
  • A tea made from the leaves has been used as an astringent.

Quirky Facts

  • The plant has the nickname "Female Finger".
  • It is also featured on silk ties with blue designs.

Further Information

  • Additional information can be found at http://eol.org/pages/585511/ and http://www.wildflower.org/gallery/species.php.
  • The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov) also provides relevant information.
  • Comprehensive details are available in the Encyclopedia of Life.