Ataco
Amaranthus quitensis
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Pl. 8CEB — Amaranthus quitensis
Amaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensisAmaranthus quitensis
IOverview
Overview
Ataco, scientifically known as Amaranthus quitensis, is an annual forb or herb native to regions in Argentina (Northeast, Northwest, South), Bolivia, Brazil (West-Central), Ecuador, Galápagos Islands, Paraguay, and Uruguay. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist conditions with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils, reaching a height of about 1 meter. Ataco is valued for its edible parts, which include the leaves and seeds, making it a useful crop in certain agricultural practices. Its adaptability to various soil types and climate conditions contributes to its widespread presence across its native range.
Quick answers
What is Ataco?
Ataco, scientifically known as Amaranthus quitensis, is an annual forb or herb native to regions in Argentina (Northeast, Northwest, South), Bolivia, Brazil (West-Central), Ecuador, Galápagos Islands, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Ataco thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant grows to about 1 meter tall and is suitable for cultivation as both a leafy green and a seed crop. It is hardy in temperate regions and can be propagated through seeds. Regular watering is essential to maintain its moisture needs, while well-draining soil will help prevent root issues.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Ataco 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, compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when soil is warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with full sun. Amend soil with compost for rich nutrients.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep, spaced 30-45 cm apart. Transplant seedlings when they have two 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 leaf production. Harvest leaves as needed throughout the growing season.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting to prune and harvest.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: Colouring
Other uses:DyeDynamic accumulator
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 15 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 15 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 10 native· 15 introduced
Europe7 regions
introduced (7)BelgiumDenmarkFranceNorwayPortugalSpainSweden
Americas6 regions
native (5)BoliviaEcuadorParaguayPeruUruguay
introduced (1)Colombia
Africa1 region
introduced (1)Cabo Verde
Broader regions
native:Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Argentina South, Brazil West-Central, Galápagos
introduced:Brazil South, Chile Central, Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is., Ontario
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 8cebbb53-731f-4de1-a406-1917bbdda9ab
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