Basics

Ease of Growing
Easy
Grown as
Annual
Days to Maturity
30-50 (Spring/Summer)
Growing Habit
-
Hardiness
Tender

Amaranth grows best in hot weather and doesn't do well if it's cold.

Crops
Summer
Growing Season
Short, Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Warm, Hot

Amaranth is a tropical plant that uses C4 photosynthesis (like corn and sunflower), which makes it particularly efficient in high heat and light intensities. Plant Amaranth in a warm sheltered spot with full sun.

Outdoor Growing Temp
60°F - 95°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
50°F

Amaranth is a tropical plant so it likes warm soil.

Start Indoors
No
Start Outdoors
Yes
Light
Sun: min. 6 hours daily (Cool, Warm, Hot)

Amaranth is a tropical plant and thrives with full sun.

Water
Moderate

Amaranth is relatively drought tolerant and too much water may cause the roots to rot. However for maximum production of both leaf and seed the soil should never be allowed to dry out.

Feeder
Moderate

Amaranth grows fast and produces a lot of nutrition, so it's not surprising that it is a fairly hungry plant. It does best on a well-drained and fertile soil, similar to that for corn. If growing for seed, it will require more fertilizer than if you're growing it for leaves.

Suitability
Drought tolerant, High heat
Small Gardens?
No
Containers?
No
Attracts beneficial insects?
No
Color
Fruit Size
- "
Plant Height
36.0 - 48.0"
Plant Diameter
12.0 - 48.0"
Hardiness Zone
5-12
Disease Resistance
Taste Profile

Younger leaves have a milder flavor and are good to use in salads. Mature leaves have a flavor similar to spinach. Use amaranth as a substitute for spinach in recipes.

Tasty seeds can be eaten raw, sprouted, toasted, roasted, or ground into flour for baking.

Rotation Group
Leaves: Brassicas + Leafy Greens