How to Grow and Care for Amaranths

Purple amaranth (Amaranthus blitum) is an annual plant that often grows as a weed. It is not often cultivated, but some people around the world gather the leaves and stems to be eaten as boiled vegetables. It is particularly common in Greek and Lebanese kitchens.

Joseph's coat is cultivated around the world both for its ornamental value and as an edible vegetable. Its name is a comparison of the plant's bright foliage to the dream coat of biblical mythology. Joseph's coat leaves are eaten raw, steamed, or stir-fried in Asia and Africa.

While the redroot amaranth is considered a weed in most areas, some parts are edible. Fresh leaves may be included in soups and stews, while the dried leaves can be utilized in tea or ground into flour for bread or used as a thickening agent. Seeds can also be eaten, but the stalks, roots, and older leaves contain toxic substances. Redroot amaranth is sometimes used as fodder for livestock - it is nutritious in small amounts but toxic if too much is fed over a span of several days.

Green amaranth is an annual herb. In many countries, it is used as a boiled vegetable. The seeds can be eaten as a nutty snack. Green amaranth contains much protein with the essential amino acid, lysine, so it can be a option for vegetarians.

Red amaranth (*Amaranthus cruentus*) is grown wild not only for its beauty but also as a grain. It is prized for its crimson feather-like flowering plumes. The seeds of red amaranth can be cooked, popped overheat, or ground into flour. Like many types of Amaranthus cruentus, the leaves make a good substitute for spinach. Archaeological evidence suggests Aztec civilizations were already cultivating these plants as much as 6000 years ago.