Amaranthus edulis (Amaranthaceae)

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Amaranthus edulis
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The Amaranthus edulis plant species is found in It is a member of the Amaranthaceae family. Some home gardeners know the variety as A. mantegazzianus.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Amaranthus edulis
Family:  Amaranthaceae
Author:  Speg.

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:     Mature Width:

Habitat:  Not known

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]. Our experience with this plant in 1989 - 1992 is that it is very difficult to produce mature seed in this country. The plant probably requires hotter summers than are normally experienced here. It grows fairly well and gives a fair crop of edible leaves. It is probably best to start the plants off early in a greenhouse and plant them out into a hot sunny position after the last expected frosts. This species is probably no more than a synonym of A. caudatus[196]. Plants should not be given inorganic fertilizers, see notes above on toxicity. Cultivated for its edible seed in Argentina but becoming rare. 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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