Amaranthus quitensis Ataco (Amaranthaceae)

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Amaranthus quitensis
Ataco
(1 Page of 5)

The Amaranthus quitensis plant species is found in S. America - Andes. A rare casual in Europe. It is a member of the Amaranthaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Ataco.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Amaranthus quitensis
Common Name:  Ataco
Family:  Amaranthaceae
Author:  Kunth.

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:  1   Mature Width:

Habitat:  An infrequent casual of waste ground in Britain, introduced with bird seed, soya-bean waste etc.It rarely, if ever, sets seed in Britain.

Cultivation Notes: We have very little information on this species and do not know how well it will grow in Britain, but it will probably succeed as a spring-sown annual. It is occasionally cultivated in S. America, mainly for the edible dye obtained from its inflorescence[183]. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. 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. 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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