Amaranth Fast Facts
image by daviza/Flickr.com, net_efekt/Flickr.com, gardengirl/Flicrk.com
Overview
Amaranth is an ancient crop native to North and South America. All varieties are drought-tolerant and require well-drained soil. Amaranth tolerates poor quality soil well.
Types
Amaranth is grown as a spinach-flavored vegetable, an ornamental border plant and as a grain for humans and livestock.
Benefits
Ornamental amaranth adds bright color to home gardens. As a food source, amaranth provides high protein, fiber, essential amino acids and lysine.
Amaranth grain, commonly referred to as quinoa.
Cultivation
Depending on variety, sow amaranth seed from 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch in depth, covering lightly with soil. Moisten the soil after seeding, but do not soak.
Tender young amaranth leaves ready to be harvested.
Warning
Frost and caterpillars are the most common enemies of amaranth. Pesticides will deter caterpillars. Complete harvests before the first frost.
History
In the 1400s, the largest-known production of amaranth grain was cultivated by the Aztecs, during the peak of their civilization.
- Perdue University
- Univeristy of Florida
Keywords:
ornamental amaranth, amaranth grain, amaranth vegetable
About this Author
Currently residing in Myrtle Beach, SC, Tammy Curry began writing agricultural and frugal living articles in 2004. Her articles have appeared in the Mid-Atlantic Farm Chronicle and Country Family Magazine. Ms. Curry has also written SEO articles for textbroker.com. She holds an associate's degree in science from Jefferson College of Health Sciences.
Photo by:
daviza/Flickr.com, net_efekt/Flickr.com, gardengirl/Flicrk.com
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