Spiny Amaranth
Amaranthus spinosus
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Pl. 8A70 — Amaranthus spinosus
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IOverview
Overview
Spiny Amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus) is a light-loving, moisture-tolerant annual forb or herb that thrives in various soil types from sandy to heavy clay. Native to regions including Argentina, Brazil, Belize, Bolivia, and parts of Central America, this plant has spread across a wide range due to its adaptability. Known for its edible leaves, it is cultivated for culinary use in some areas. One distinctive feature sets Spiny Amaranth apart: its spiny stems, which can make handling the plant challenging. This hardy species grows up to 0.6 meters tall and is found in zones 4-11, making it suitable for gardens across a broad climatic range.
Quick answers
What is Spiny Amaranth?
Spiny Amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus) is a light-loving, moisture-tolerant annual forb or herb that thrives in various soil types from sandy to heavy clay. Native to regions including Argentina, Brazil, Belize, Bolivia, and parts of Central America, this plant has spread across a wide range due to its adaptability.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Spiny Amaranth thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-11 and grows as an annual, reaching a height of about 0.6 meters. Propagate by seed directly sown in the garden once the threat of frost has passed. This plant is native to regions across Central and South America and the Caribbean, making it adaptable to various climates within its range.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-11
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Spiny 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, garden tools, water can.
- 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. Soil should be well-draining, light to heavy.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 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
Continue regular watering, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding. Harvest leaves as needed for cooking.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Spiny Amaranth are edible and can be prepared in various ways. They are often eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. The leaves can also be dried for later use. Skip the preparation details to maintain brevity.
Other uses:DyeDynamic accumulator
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Americas13 regions
native (13)BahamasBelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta RicaCubaEcuadorEl SalvadorHaitiHondurasJamaicaNicaraguaParaguay
Broader regions
native:Panamá, Brazil Northeast, Mexico Central, Brazil North, Brazil West-Central, Leeward Is., Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southwest, Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Cayman Is., Galápagos, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Southeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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