Amaranthus frumentaceus
Amaranthus frumentaceusfam. Amaranthaceae
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Pl. 8159 — Amaranthus frumentaceus
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IOverview
Overview
Amaranthus frumentaceus, a light-loving annual forb or herb found in Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, and various regions of Mexico, is known for its edible leaves and seeds. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light to heavy soil types, making it adaptable to diverse habitats. Native to the central and southern parts of North America as well as certain Mexican regions, A. frumentaceus has been cultivated for its nutritious value, providing a valuable food source. One distinctive feature is its ability to grow in various soil types, from sandy to clay-rich environments, while another notable characteristic is its full sun requirement, ensuring it receives adequate light for optimal growth and productivity.
Quick answers
What is Amaranthus frumentaceus?
Amaranthus frumentaceus, a light-loving annual forb or herb found in Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, and various regions of Mexico, is known for its edible leaves and seeds. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light to heavy soil types, making it adaptable to diverse habitats.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Amaranthus frumentaceus thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual forb/herb is hardy in temperate regions and grows well in areas like Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Texas, and parts of Mexico. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist while ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot. Harvest the leaves and seeds for culinary use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
For first-time growers
How to grow Amaranthus frumentaceus for the first time
8steps
Start with simple soil and light conditions to grow Skip successfully.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a container or garden bed, gardening gloves.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are above 60°F (15°C).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun. Ensure soil is well-draining but moist.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 inch deep, spaced 6-8 inches apart. Transplant seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly every 4-6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune occasionally to encourage bushy growth. Harvest leaves and seeds as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The amaranth seeds and leaves of Amaranthus frumentaceus are edible. The seeds can be roasted or ground into flour for use in various dishes, while the leaves are often cooked like spinach. Both parts are typically eaten fresh but can also be dried for later use.
Other uses:DyeDynamic accumulator
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
11 native · 19 introduced
Distribution
11 native · 19 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 11 native· 19 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Russia
Asia1 region
introduced (1)China
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)CameroonChad
Broader regions
native:Mexico Northeast, Missouri, Mexico Northwest, Kansas, Texas, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Mexico Southwest, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Central, Minnesota
introduced:Cook Is., East Aegean Is., Congo, California, Arizona, British Columbia, Illinois, Florida, East Himalaya, Cape Provinces, Baltic States, Argentina Northeast
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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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 815962f9-f22c-4ca9-a931-46763dda1cd8
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