Amaranthus albus
Amaranthus albusfam. Amaranthaceae
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Pl. AC95 — Amaranthus albus
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IOverview
Overview
Amaranthus albus, commonly known as white amaranth, is an annual herb that thrives in full sun and moist to well-drained soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Native to regions such as Angola, Botswana, Ethiopia, Kenya, and parts of southern Africa, this plant can grow up to 0.7 meters tall. Recognized for its edible leaves and seeds, it is cultivated in areas within its native range for both food and ornamental purposes. One distinctive feature of A. albus is its ability to adapt to a wide variety of soil conditions while providing sustenance through its nutritious leaves and seeds.
Quick answers
What is Amaranthus albus?
Amaranthus albus, commonly known as white amaranth, is an annual herb that thrives in full sun and moist to well-drained soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Native to regions such as Angola, Botswana, Ethiopia, Kenya, and parts of southern Africa, this plant can grow up to 0.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Amaranthus albus thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions with a range of 8-10 on the USDA Hardiness Zone scale. This annual plant grows to about 0.7 meters tall and produces edible leaves and seeds. For successful cultivation, ensure consistent moisture and ample sunlight. Propagation can be done through seed sowing directly into the garden soil after all danger of frost has passed.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-10
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
0.7 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Amaranthus albus for the first time
8steps
Start with Amaranthus albus as a simple, rewarding project for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are above 15°C (60°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun. Prepare soil that is light, medium, or heavy but well-draining.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep in rows 30-45 cm apart. Transplant seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Thin plants if necessary to ensure good spacing.
- 6
Ongoing care
Continue regular watering, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base for moisture retention and weed control.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly by cutting back stems to encourage bushy growth and prevent flowering.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without drainage, neglecting regular pruning, sowing too late in the season, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The amaranth leaves and seeds of Amaranthus albus are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked in various dishes, while the seeds are often harvested for grinding into flour or roasted as a snack. Both parts are commonly consumed in the plant's native range across Africa.
Other uses:DyeDynamic accumulator
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Africa15 regions
native (15)AngolaBotswanaEritreaEswatiniEthiopiaKenyaLesothoMalawiMozambiqueNamibiaSomaliaTanzaniaUgandaZambiaZimbabwe
Broader regions
native:Mississippi, Cape Provinces, Mexico Northeast, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Provinces, Zaïre, Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Nevada
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Amaranthaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Amaranthaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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