Amaranthus albus vs Pigweed

Amaranthus albus (Amaranthus albus) and Pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus) — side-by-side cultivation, uses, and safety.

SIDE A

Amaranthus albus (Amaranthus albus) — botanical photograph

Pigweed

Amaranthus retroflexus

Amaranthaceaeedible

Side-by-side attributes

Attribute	Amaranthus albus	Pigweed
Latin name	Amaranthus albus	Amaranthus retroflexus
Family	Amaranthaceae	Amaranthaceae
Edible	yes	yes
Medicinal	no	no
Life cycle	Annual	Annual
Mature height	0.7 m	0.9 m
Light	Full sun	Full sun
Water	Moist	Moist
Soil	Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)	Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness	8-10	3-11
pH range	—	—
Edible parts	Leaves, Seed	Leaves, Seed
Propagation	—	—

III

Which to pick

Both have their place

Amaranthus albus and Pigweed cover similar territory. Pick based on what you can actually grow (climate, soil) and what's locally available. See the cultivation rows above for the deciding factors.

Frequently asked

What is the main difference between Amaranthus albus and Pigweed?

Amaranthus albus (Amaranthus albus) and Pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus) are both in the Amaranthaceae family. See the side-by-side table above for cultivation needs, edible parts, and medicinal uses.

Can Amaranthus albus and Pigweed be combined?

Plant combinations should be evaluated case by case. Check the safety/contraindications section on each plant's profile (Amaranthus albus and Pigweed) before mixing. Some combinations are synergistic, others can interact with medication.

Are these plants safe?

Every plant profile includes a Cautions section with contraindications, drug interactions, and population warnings. Consult a healthcare professional before using either for medicinal purposes.

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