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.

Edible Uses: Leaves - cooked as a spinach[183]. The mild-flavoured leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals[183]. Seed - very small but easy to harvest and very nutritious. They are eaten cooked or ground into a powder and used for making cakes etc[183, 257]. They can also be sprouted and used in salads[183]. The seed can be cooked whole, and becomes very gelatinous like this, but it is rather difficult to crush all of the small seeds in the mouth and thus some of the seed will pass right through the digestive system without being assimilated[K]. The flowers are used as a food colouring in ceremonial maize bread[183].

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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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