Amaranthus cruentus Purple amaranth (Amaranthaceae)

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Amaranthus cruentus
Purple amaranth
(1 Page of 5)

The Amaranthus cruentus plant species is found in Original habitat is obscure, it was probably tropical America. It is a member of the Amaranthaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Purple amaranth. Some home gardeners know the variety as A. hybridus cruentus. Thell.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Amaranthus cruentus
Common Name:  Purple amaranth
Family:  Amaranthaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  No members of this genus are known to be poisonous, but when grown on nitrogen-rich soils they are known to concentrate nitrates in the leaves. This is especially noticeable on land where chemical fertilizers are used. Nitrates are implicated in stomach cancers, blue babies and some other health problems. It is inadvisable, therefore, to eat this plant if it is grown inorganically.

Mature Height:  2   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Not known in a truly wild situation.

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a well-drained fertile soil in a sunny position[200]. Requires a hot sheltered position if it is to do well[K]. Tolerates a pH in the range 4 to 7.5. Plants should not be given inorganic fertilizers, see notes above on toxicity. Cultivated for its edible leaves and seed in S. America, there are some named varieties[183]. This species is the most adaptable of the grain amaranths, it also flowers under a wider range of daylength hours than the other species[183]. Most if not all members of this genus photosynthesize by a more efficient method than most plants. Called the 'C4 carbon-fixation pathway', this process is particularly efficient at high temperatures, in bright sunlight and under dry conditions[196].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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