Amaranthus polystachyus

Willd.

Amaranthaceae Edible: Leaves, Seeds Potential hazards — see below

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RECOLNAT (ANR-11-INBS-0004)

Summary

A frost-tender annual with monoecious flowers pollinated by wind and capable of self-fertilization. Thrives in light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils that are well-drained. Tolerates mildly acidic, neutral, and basic soils. Requires full sun and prefers moist conditions. Not suitable for shaded locations.

Description

Edible Uses

Both the leaves and seeds of this amaranth are edible and nutritious. The leaves are cooked as a spinach, though they have a very bland flavor. The seeds, though very small, are easy to harvest and highly nutritious. They can be cooked whole, becoming very gelatinous, but it is difficult to crush all the small seeds in the mouth and some will pass through the digestive system without being assimilated.

Traditional Uses

The leaves are cooked and eaten. The seeds are cooked and eaten. Caution: It can accumulate nitrates when nitrogen fertilisers have been used.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Medicinal Uses

None known.

Known Hazards

No members of this genus are known to be poisonous, but when grown on nitrogen-rich soils they are known to concentrate nitrates in the leaves. This is especially noticeable on land where chemical fertilizers are used. Nitrates are implicated in stomach cancers, blue babies and some other health problems. It is inadvisable, therefore, to eat this plant if it is grown inorganically.

Distribution

It is a tropical plant. It is best in a sunny position in a well-drained soil. Plants can be grown from cuttings.

Where It Grows

Coming Soon

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know how well it will grow in Britain, though it should succeed as a spring-sown annual. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a well-drained fertile soil in a sunny position. Requires a hot sheltered position if it is to do well. Plants should not be given inorganic fertilizers, see notes above on toxicity. Most if not all members of this genus photosynthesize by a more efficient method than most plants. Called the 'C4 carbon-fixation pathway', this process is particularly efficient at high temperatures, in bright sunlight and under dry conditions.

Propagation

Sow seed in late spring in situ. An earlier sowing can be made in a greenhouse, with plants put out after the last expected frosts. Germination is usually rapid and good when the soil is warm, and a drop in temperature overnight aids germination. Cuttings of growing plants root easily.