Redroot amaranth (Amaranthus retroflexus)

Also known as: Redroot pigweed, Common amaranth

Redroot amaranth (Amaranthus retroflexus) is often seen as a weed but has edible parts that can be quite nutritious:

1. **Leaves:** Young leaves are best for consumption. You can enjoy them raw in salads or cook them similarly to spinach. For older leaves, cooking helps reduce bitterness and makes them more palatable.
2. **Stems:** The tender stems can be incorporated into dishes like stir-fries or soups for added texture and nutrition.
3. **Seeds:** These tiny seeds can be toasted and used as a grain alternative or ground into flour for baking.

**Preparation Methods:**
- **Leaves and stems:** Thoroughly wash, then steam, sauté, or boil to suit your recipe.
- **Seeds:** Rinse and dry roast them in a pan until they start to pop, or cook like quinoa for a versatile ingredient.

Avoid consuming the stalks, roots, and older leaves as they may contain harmful substances. Ensure to correctly identify the plant and confirm it is pesticide-free before consumption.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Redroot amaranth

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

15 cm to 1 m

Spread

50 cm to 1 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2 cm to 4 cm

Flower Color

Green Yellow Red Orange

Images of Redroot amaranth

Quickly Identify Redroot amaranth

Robust growth reaching 1-6.5 feet (30 cm to 2 meters) height

Dense clusters of small, inconspicuous green flowers

Bladder-like fruit housing glossy, black to reddish-brown seeds

Variable leaf sizes with reddish undersides and hairs

Robust, hairy stem with a reddish base, up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick

Scientific Classification of Redroot amaranth

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Pinks, cacti, and allies

Family

Amaranth

Genus

Amaranths

Species

Redroot amaranth

Planting and Growing of Redroot amaranth

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

66-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Redroot amaranth?

Amaranthus retroflexus thrives with a consistent watering routine. It requires roughly 300 ml of water per session or until the top 2-3 inches of soil feel adequately moist but not waterlogged. Ensuring the soil is allowed to dry slightly between waterings is key, as it improves root aeration and health.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Redroot amaranth? ›

What should I do if my Redroot amaranth is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Redroot amaranth? ›

How to save an overwatered Redroot amaranth? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Redroot amaranth?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6+ hours daily

Amaranthus retroflexus benefits most from full sun exposure, achieving its best growth and health. Full sunlight helps in maximizing photosynthesis and overall plant resilience.

What is the optimal lighting? ›

How to achieve ideal lighting? ›

Benefits of ideal lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Redroot amaranth?

Ideal Temperature: 66 ~ 86℉

For optimal growth of Amaranthus retroflexus, the plant thrives best in temperatures ranging from 66°F to 86°F. This range supports healthy photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and overall plant vigor. Maintaining these temperatures ensures that Amaranthus retroflexus can carry out its biological processes effectively, leading to robust growth and flowering.

What Soil is Best for Redroot amaranth?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Amaranthus retroflexus thrives in soils that provide excellent drainage. Well-draining soils prevent waterlogging, which could lead to root rot. This is particularly beneficial as it ensures healthy root development and robust plant growth. Rich in organic matter, the soil should supply essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients play a vital role in the plant's metabolic processes and vibrant foliage coloration. This plant requires soil that maintains moisture without becoming soggy. Consistent soil moisture supports continuous nutrient uptake, optimizing growth cycles and preventing drought-induced stress.

How to Fertilize Redroot amaranth?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Amaranthus retroflexus, it's important to maintain a balanced approach. Utilize a liquid fertilizer diluted to half its recommended strength, applying around 100 ml per plant. Slow-release fertilizers should be used sparingly—about 15 grams per plant each time.

How to Prune Redroot amaranth?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Use sharp, clean pruning shears to ensure smooth cuts and prevent disease spread. Wear gloves to protect your hands from potential irritants and have a container ready to collect removed plant material. Focus on cutting back old, woody, or leggy stems close to the base to promote new, healthy growth. Aim to shape the plant by encouraging branches to grow outward rather than upwards, enhancing its bushiness. Amaranthus retroflexus can be invasive due to its prolific seed production. Trim away developing seed heads consistently to prevent unwanted self-seeding and to focus the plant's energy on leaf and stem development.

How to Propagate Redroot amaranth plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Late spring, Early summer

Fill the seed tray with potting mix and evenly sprinkle the Amaranthus retroflexus seeds on the surface. Cover the seeds lightly with a thin layer of soil. Water gently to moisten the soil without displacing the seeds.

Place the seed tray in a location with consistent warmth, around 70-75°F (21-24°C). You may cover the tray with a clear plastic lid to maintain humidity, crucial for effective seed germination.

When seedlings develop two to three true leaves, they are ready for transplantation. Gently move them to individual pots or a prepared garden bed, maintaining consistent moisture as they establish.

How to Repot Redroot amaranth plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Amaranthus retroflexus exhibits signs that indicate it's time for repotting. Look for roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant becoming top-heavy. This usually occurs when the plant outgrows its current pot. Spring and summer are ideal seasons for repotting as the plant is in its active growth phase, making it easier to adapt to a new home.

Select a pot with adequate drainage, as Amaranthus retroflexus thrives in conditions where water doesn't stagnate. Opt for a pot that's only slightly larger than the current one. This helps prevent overwatering and allows the roots to expand gradually. A pot made of a breathable material can also help maintain air circulation around the roots.

For Amaranthus retroflexus, a well-draining potting mix is essential. Ensure the soil has a good balance of organic materials and aeration, which supports root health and growth. Incorporating a small amount of sand or perlite can help improve drainage and mimic the plant's native environment, preventing root rot.

Toxicity of Redroot amaranth

Is Redroot amaranth toxic to cat?

Redroot amaranth poses a risk to cats due to its toxic nature. Cats usually come into contact with this plant inadvertently by consuming its leaves or stems, both of which harbor poisonous compounds. If a cat ingests any part of redroot amaranth, it may experience discomfort, which could be evident through changes in behavior or signs of illness. Given the considerable toxicity, it is essential for cat owners to keep their pets away from redroot amaranth and to seek prompt veterinary assistance if a cat is suspected of having ingested this plant, to safeguard their health and wellbeing.

Is Redroot amaranth toxic to dog?

Redroot amaranth is known to be toxic to dogs. Canines may inadvertently consume various parts of the plant, including its leaves and stems, which can result in poisoning. If a dog happens to eat redroot amaranth, they could show symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, or more severe clinical signs depending on the quantity ingested. It is crucial for dog owners to keep a close eye on their pets and restrict their access to this plant. In cases where a dog has eaten redroot amaranth, seeking immediate veterinary assistance is vital to ensure appropriate treatment and management of any possible toxicity.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.