How to identify Redroot amaranth (Amaranthus retroflexus)

How to identify Redroot amaranth (Amaranthus retroflexus)

Redroot amaranth is an annual with a robust growth habit, often developing multiple stems that can reach heights of 1 to 6.5 feet (30 cm to 2 meters). Its leaves are generally broad and green, with a slightly wavy or crinkled texture and a prominent central vein. The inflorescences present as dense clusters of small green flowers, which typically blossom in the summer and can persist into the fall. This plant tends to have a deep taproot and can thrive in various disturbed soils, displaying minimal branching or growing with a more singular, sturdy stalk.

Lifespan: Annual

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Redroot amaranth

Robust growth reaching 1-6.5 feet (30 cm to 2 meters) height

Dense clusters of small, inconspicuous green flowers

Bladder-like fruit housing glossy, black to reddish-brown seeds

Variable leaf sizes with reddish undersides and hairs

Robust, hairy stem with a reddish base, up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick

Detailed Traits of Redroot amaranth

Leaf Features

The leaves of redroot amaranth exhibit considerable variation in size along the central stem, becoming smaller towards the apex. Each leaf features a rounded base with a tip that could be acute, obtuse, emarginate, or rounded. The upper surfaces are smooth and hairless, while the undersides possess hairs along the veins and may display a reddish or purple hue. These leaves are typically lanceolate to ovate in shape, measuring up to 6 inches (15 cm) long.

Leaf Shape

Ovate ,

Rhombic

Leaf Type

Simple

Leaf Base

Cuneate

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

Leaf Apex

Acute

Leaf Margin

Entire ,

Undulate

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Flower Features

Redroot amaranth flowers are numerous, small, and green, presenting a monoecious arrangement. Each flower features prominent bracts that are longer than the tepals. They cluster in dense, unbranched spikes that form on panicles. The flowers lack noticeable scent. Blooming typically occurs from late spring to early autumn. Individual flowers range in size from 0.1 to 0.2 inches (2.5 to 5 mm). Their small size and green hue make them relatively inconspicuous despite their dense clusters.

Corolla Type

Rosaceous

Inflorescence Type

Spike ,

Panicle

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Stem Features

The stem of redroot amaranth is robust and rounded, exhibiting prominent veins. It is covered with fine white hairs that contribute to its distinctive texture. Near the base, the stem takes on a reddish hue, providing a key identifying feature. Such a stem may reach a thickness of around 1 inch (2.5 cm), and its stout nature supports considerable branching. Overall, the combination of these characteristics makes the stem of redroot amaranth easily recognizable and distinct.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of redroot amaranth is encapsulated in a bladder-like structure that splits circumferentially upon reaching maturity. Within, it houses a single glossy seed that can range in color from jet black to a dark reddish-brown hue. The seeds of redroot amaranth are tiny, yet a single plant is capable of producing an astounding number of seeds, up to around 117,000. This high seed count contributes significantly to the plant's prolific nature and ability to spread.

Fruit Type

Utricle

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Redroot amaranth and Their Similar Plants

Purple amaranth vs. Redroot amaranth: What's The Difference?

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.

Palmer's amaranth vs. Redroot amaranth: What's The Difference?

Palmer's amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) grows very fast and is invasive in many countries. It is also toxic to some livestock, so it's often classified as a noxious weed. Palmer's amaranth can also be turned into green or yellow dye.

Love-lies-bleeding vs. Redroot amaranth: What's The Difference?

The love-lies-bleeding is an annual plant that is grown as an ornamental and as a food source. It is notable for its long, hanging red or gold blossoms that resemble tassels or fox tails. The leaves and seeds are used to make flour and other foods. Traditionally, several parts of this plant were utilized as herbal medicine.

Joseph's coat vs. Redroot amaranth: What's The Difference?

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.

Prince's feather vs. Redroot amaranth: What's The Difference?

Prince's feather (*Amaranthus hypochondriacus*) thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Evidence of its cultivation in Central America dates back roughly 6000 years. A red food coloring can be derived from prince's feather, and it can also be planted in patios and walkways to add more color to your place.

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Key Facts About Redroot amaranth

Attributes of Redroot amaranth

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

15 cm to 1 m

Spread

50 cm to 1 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2 cm to 4 cm

Flower Color

Green

Yellow

Red

Orange

Fruit Color

Brown

Cream

Stem Color

Green

Red

Leaf type

Deciduous

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Scientific Classification of Redroot amaranth

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Pinks, cacti, and allies

Family

Amaranth

Genus

Amaranths

Species

Redroot amaranth (Amaranthus retroflexus)

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Distribution Map of Redroot amaranth

Redroot amaranth is widespread, with a presence across various continents. Native to certain areas in the western part of North America and parts of the Middle East, redroot amaranth has been introduced to regions in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. While it has adapted to a variety of climates, redroot amaranth is sometimes thought to be a concern in certain ecosystems, particularly where it has been noted as invasive, potentially influencing local flora dynamics. However, its exact impact remains subject to ecological studies.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Redroot amaranth

A Comprehensive Guide to Redroot amaranth How to Grow and Care for Redroot amaranth