SafePlants

Amaranth: A Versatile Plant

Amaranth, collectively known as amaranth or pigweed, is a cosmopolitan genus with over 60 species. It has a rich history as both a decorative plant and a food source in various cultures.

Considerations for Pets

• Amaranth greens, especially those with red or purple streaking, might be attractive to pets.

Considerations for Children

• Some amaranth varieties may have small parts that could pose a choking hazard for young children.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Genus: Amaranthus
• Common Names: Amaranth, Pigweed
• Amaranthus polygonoides: Tropical Amaranth
• Amaranthus powellii: Green Amaranth, Powell Amaranth
• Amaranthus mangostanus: Edible Red Amaranth

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Amaranthaceae (Amaranth Family)
• Synonyms: Amaranthus berlandieri, Amaranthus polygonoides ssp. berlandieri
• USDA Symbol: AMPO (for Amaranthus polygonoides)

Distribution and Habitat

• Amaranth is a cosmopolitan genus found throughout the world in both temperate and tropical climates.
• Amaranthus polygonoides (Tropical Amaranth) is native to the lowland tropics in the Americas but has spread through tropical and subtropical latitudes globally.
• Grain amaranth cultivation has been concentrated in highland valleys.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Amaranth is a genus of annual or short-lived perennial herbs.
• Some species are cultivated as leaf vegetables (salad greens).
• Leaf Amaranth prefers a fertile, well-drained garden soil and full sun to partial shade.
• Tropical amaranth grows best at temperatures between 70 F and 85 F.

Ecological Role

• Spiny amaranth has spread through tropical and subtropical latitudes around the world.

Traditional Uses and Cultural Significance

• Amaranth was cultivated by the Aztecs.
• The amaranth flower has been used as a symbol.
• Amaranth grains are toasted (like popcorn) and mixed with honey or molasses to make a treat.
• In the Nahuatl (Aztec) speaking area of Zongolica, Veracruz, amaranth is cultivated using slash and burn techniques.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Tantora Amaranth Leaves are used as nutritious shrimp food and are considered shrimp safe.

Further Information

• Discover Life provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Amaranthus polygonoides.
• Dave's Garden is a community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.
• Medindia's Herbal Plants section gives facts about Tropical amaranth indications in different diseases and methods of preparation.