Green Pigweed
Amaranthus viridisfam. Amaranthaceae
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Pl. A3AF — Amaranthus viridis
Amaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridisAmaranthus viridis
IOverview
Overview
Amaranthus viridis, commonly known as green amaranth, is an annual herb that thrives in full sun and moist soil conditions. Native to regions including Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, and parts of Central America, this plant has spread widely across the Americas. It is valued for its edible leaves and seeds, making it a nutritious addition to various cuisines. One distinctive feature of A. viridis is its ability to grow in diverse soil types, from light sandy soils to heavier clay soils, while thriving in hardiness zones 7-11. Its height typically reaches about 0.5 meters, contributing to its ornamental appeal as well as its practical use in gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Green Pigweed?
Amaranthus viridis, commonly known as green amaranth, is an annual herb that thrives in full sun and moist soil conditions. Native to regions including Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, and parts of Central America, this plant has spread widely across the Americas.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Amaranthus viridis thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-11 and grows as an annual, reaching a height of about 0.5 meters. For propagation, sow seeds directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-11
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
0.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Green Pigweed for the first time
8steps
Start with Green Pigweed as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 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 true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Thin plants if necessary to ensure space.
- 6
Ongoing care
Continue regular watering, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants for moisture retention and weed control.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune occasionally to encourage bushy growth. Harvest leaves as needed throughout the growing season.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without drainage, neglecting regular thinning and pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The amaranth leaves and seeds of Amaranthus viridis are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Seeds are typically harvested and ground into flour for baking or roasted and eaten like nuts. Both parts add a nutritious boost to various dishes.
Other uses:DyeDynamic accumulator
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Americas17 regions
native (17)BahamasBelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta RicaCubaDominican RepublicEcuadorEl SalvadorFrench GuianaGuatemalaHaitiHondurasJamaicaNicaraguaParaguayPeru
Broader regions
native:Mexico Southeast, Netherlands Antilles, Panamá, Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Aruba, Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central, Cayman Is., Galápagos
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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Growing zone
XII
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