Amaranthus leucocarpus (Amaranthaceae)

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Amaranthus leucocarpus
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The Amaranthus leucocarpus plant species is found in C. America. It is a member of the Amaranthaceae family.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Amaranthus leucocarpus
Family:  Amaranthaceae
Author:  Wats.

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]. Plants should not be given inorganic fertilizers, see notes above on toxicity. Cultivated for its edible seed in Mexico and Guatamala[142, 177]. A. leucospermus. S.Wats. is mentioned in (74) as an ancient grain crop useful in mountainous areas and a weed of cultivated ground. It is possible that the two names refer to one and the same plant and that one is simply a mis-spelling. 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

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