Palmer Amaranth
Amaranthus palmeri
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Pl. 5168 — Amaranthus palmeri
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IOverview
Overview
Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) is an annual plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, thriving in light sandy, medium, or heavy clay soils. This hardy plant grows up to 2 meters tall and is known for its edible leaves and seeds, making it a valuable food source. Its native range includes Arizona, California, Nevada, and various regions of Mexico. While not commonly cultivated, Palmer Amaranth's adaptability and nutritional value make it an interesting addition to gardens or wild landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Palmer Amaranth?
Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) is an annual plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, thriving in light sandy, medium, or heavy clay soils.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Palmer Amaranth thrives in full sun and can grow up to 2 meters tall. It prefers well-drained soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) but will tolerate dry conditions as well. This annual plant requires regular watering for best growth. Hardy from zones 7-12, it is native to regions including Arizona, California, and various parts of Mexico. For propagation, seeds can be sown directly in the garden once the danger of frost has passed. The edible parts include leaves and seeds, making this a versatile addition to your garden.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-12
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
2 meters m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Palmer Amaranth for the first time
8steps
Start with simple soil and full sun, and you'll have a good chance of success.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a trowel, water can or hose.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with full sun. Soil should be well-draining; amend as needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep, spaced 30-45 cm 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 watering, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage more growth and prevent self-seeding. Harvest leaves as needed for cooking.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting to prune spent flowers.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: Palmer Amaranth leaves and seeds are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Seeds can be harvested and ground into flour for baking or roasted as a snack. Both parts add a nutritious boost to meals.
Other uses:DyeDynamic accumulator
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 20 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 20 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 10 native· 20 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Portugal
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Dominican Republic
Broader regions
native:Mexico Southwest, Mexico Northwest, New Mexico, Texas, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Nevada, California, Arizona
introduced:Kriti, Louisiana, Kentucky, Colorado, Argentina Northwest, Kansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Primorye, Illinois
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 5168f27b-d03e-45a6-a1f6-ea796143af04
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