Amaranthus hybridus Rough pigweed (Amaranthaceae)

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Amaranthus hybridus
Rough pigweed
(1 Page of 5)

The Amaranthus hybridus plant species is found in Tropics. Naturalized in Europe[50]. It is a member of the Amaranthaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Rough pigweed. Some home gardeners know the variety as A. chlorostachys.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Amaranthus hybridus
Common Name:  Rough pigweed
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:  0.9   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Of uncertain origin, it grows wild in cultivated fields and waste places[43].

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]. Plants should not be given inorganic fertilizers, see notes above on toxicity. Cultivated as a food crop in India[46, 105], there are many named forms[183]. This species has the potential, through crossbreeding, of imparting early maturity to the white seeded grain amaranths[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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