How to identify Joseph's coat (Amaranthus tricolor)

How to identify Joseph's coat (Amaranthus tricolor)

Joseph's coat, also known as Chinese spinach, Elephant-head amaranth, Tampala, Edible amaranth, Summer poinsettia, Ganges amaranth

Joseph's coat distinguishes itself with an impressive display of vibrant leaves, often featuring a striking trichromatic palette. The foliage, the plant's most notable characteristic, can showcase shades ranging from deep purples and reds to eye-catching yellows and greens. Typically reaching heights of up to 5 feet (1.5 meters), the leaves generally span about 5 to 7 inches (12 to 18 cm) in length. Although its flowers are not the primary focus, joseph's coat does bloom small, inconspicuous buds. The term 'tricolor' in its name denotes its signature three-colored leaves, which contribute a bold splash of color to any setting.

Lifespan: Annual

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Joseph's coat

Vibrant trichromatic foliage in shades of purple, red, yellow, and green.

Leaves are elliptical to lanceolate, 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long, with prominent veins.

Inconspicuous flower clusters in leaf axils, 0.1-0.2 inches (2-5 mm) in diameter.

Dry dehiscent capsules with glossy black seeds, each about 1 mm (0.04 in) in diameter.

Multicolored foliage provides bold colors in shades of pink, gold, and copper.

Detailed Traits of Joseph's coat

Leaf Features

The leaves of joseph's coat are strikingly multicolored, available in shades of green, purple, yellow, gold, red, pink, and copper. They are primarily elliptical to lanceolate or broadly ovate, measuring approximately 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) in length. The leaf surfaces are smooth with a slightly shiny texture. Veins are prominent and run longitudinally, providing a distinctive pattern. The variation in color and shape makes these leaves highly distinctive and ornamental, aiding in easy identification.

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Flower Features

The flowers of joseph's coat are small and inconspicuous, typically clustered in rounded formations within the leaf axils (the space where the leaf stems join the main stem). These clusters can form short spike inflorescences, though occasionally they may be longer. Each flower measures approximately 0.1 to 0.2 inches (2-5 mm) in diameter. The blooms lack significant fragrance, and their color ranges from light green to pale yellow. The blooming period usually spans from late summer to early fall.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of joseph's coat is a capsule, which when mature, opens with a lid-like structure to reveal its contents. It’s a dry and dehiscent form, meaning it releases its seeds upon reaching maturity. Contained within are numerous black, glossy seeds that are produced from the inconspicuous flowers the plant bears. These seeds may be easily overlooked, but upon closer inspection, they exhibit a brilliant sheen that captures the light. The size of the seeds is typically small, with a diameter of about 1 millimeter (0.04 inches), making them a challenge to collect without losing some to the wind.

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Joseph's coat and Their Similar Plants

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

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.

Purple amaranth vs. Joseph's coat: 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. Joseph's coat: 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. Joseph's coat: 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.

Prince's feather vs. Joseph's coat: 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 Joseph's coat

Attributes of Joseph's coat

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

80 cm to 1.5 m

Spread

30 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Yellow

Red

Variegated

Flower Size

5 mm to 1.5 cm

Leaf type

Deciduous

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Scientific Classification of Joseph's coat

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Pinks, cacti, and allies

Family

Amaranth

Genus

Amaranths

Species

Joseph's coat (Amaranthus tricolor)

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Distribution Map of Joseph's coat

Joseph's coat is indigenous to Southern Asia, Southeast Asia, as well as select Pacific islands. It has been introduced and established in regions of Africa, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. Its cultivation occurs beyond its native range, thriving in various climates that are suitable for its growth.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

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A Comprehensive Guide to Joseph's coat How to Grow and Care for Joseph's coat