Red-root amaranth, Redroot pigweed, Common amaranth, Green amaranth
Amaranthus retroflexus
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
The leaves and seeds are edible and nutritious, offering a gluten-free grain alternative. Young leaves can be used as a spinach substitute, cooked or eaten raw. The seeds can be sprouted or ground into flour. It can be used as a green manure to improve soil fertility and as a trap crop for certain pests. The whole plant can be used as animal fodder.
Permapeople description
A common annual weed found throughout North America. It is edible but can accumulate nitrates in the leaves.
Botanical description
Amaranthus retroflexus is an annual broadleaf plant in the Amaranthaceae family, growing up to 6.6 feet tall. It has a thick, reddish taproot and erect, branched stems that are often hairy. The leaves are alternate, ovate to lanceolate, dull green with prominent veins. The inflorescences are dense, green spikes located in the leaf axils and at the stem tips. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with bristly bracts. The seeds are small, black, and lenticular.
Companion planting
Generally considered a weed and can compete with crops. However, it can act as a temporary ground cover and attract beneficial insects when managed carefully.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily by seed. Seeds can be directly sown in the spring after the last frost or started indoors 4-6 weeks before. It self-seeds readily.
History and traditions
Amaranthus retroflexus is native to North America but has become naturalized worldwide. It has been used traditionally by indigenous peoples as a food source and for medicinal purposes. Some cultures have used the seeds for making bread and porridge, and the leaves as a cooked vegetable. It is considered a weed in many agricultural settings.
Usage calendar
Seeds are sown in spring (April-June). Leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season (June-October). Seeds mature in late summer to fall (August-October).