How to Grow Amaranthus Red Stripe
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Amaranthus Red Stripe
Amaranthus hypochondriacus
vegetableAmaranthus Red Stripe is an ornamental and edible grain amaranth featuring striking deep red foliage with green striping, growing 3-5 feet tall. The plant produces dramatic dark red grain heads and tender edible leaves rich in nutrients. Both the grain and leafy greens are highly nutritious and have been cultivated for thousands of years.
When should you plant Amaranthus Red Stripe in your zone?
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Example Amaranthus Red Stripe timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Amaranthus Red Stripe
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Amaranthus Red Stripe
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Amaranthus Red Stripe dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-11; grows best in warm conditions (65-75°F)
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny plants with 2-4 true leaves emerging, red striping visible on early foliage
Keep soil consistently moist; thin seedlings to proper spacing when 2-3 inches tall; provide bright light if started indoors
Vegetative/Leaf Development
4-6 weeksRapid growth with increasingly prominent red and green striped leaves; plant reaches 12-24 inches
Harvest outer leaves for greens production starting at 4-6 weeks; maintain consistent moisture; apply balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks
Flowering/Grain Head Formation
3-4 weeksTerminal grain heads form at top, transitioning from green to deep red; lateral branches develop secondary panicles; plant reaches mature height
Reduce fertilizer nitrogen to encourage grain development; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature
Grain Development
3-4 weeksGrain heads become fully packed with seeds; foliage darkens to deep burgundy; heads may nod from weight
Minimal water needed; watch for pests; heads are ready when seeds are hard and won't crush between fingernails
Harvest
Varies; typically late summer to fallGrain heads fully mature with deep red color; foliage may begin to dry; seeds rattle in heads when shaken
Cut heads and hang to dry completely (2-3 weeks) before threshing; store in cool, dry location
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Row covers on young plants; neem oil spray; encourage beneficial insects; avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen
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Hand-pick early infestations; Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray; crop rotation; maintain garden hygiene
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Increase humidity; spray with water; neem oil; insecticidal soap; ensure adequate air circulation
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Careful weeding to distinguish from young amaranthus; mulch to prevent seed germination; clean seeds before storage
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Strong water spray; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage ladybugs and lacewings
Uses
Nutritious Grain and Gluten-Free Staple
CulinaryAmaranthus grain is a complete protein containing all essential amino acids, making it valuable for vegetarian and vegan diets. The grain can be popped like popcorn, ground into flour for baking, or cooked as a porridge. [source]
Edible Leafy Greens
CulinaryYoung leaves are tender and mild with a slightly nutty flavor, rich in calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C. Use fresh in salads, sauté like spinach, or add to soups and stews. [source]
Traditional Herbal and Nutritional Remedy
MedicinalAmaranthus has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to support digestion, reduce inflammation, and provide nutritional support. Modern research supports its high mineral content and anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Striking Garden Ornament
OrnamentalThe dramatic red-striped foliage and deep burgundy grain heads make this amaranthus an attractive addition to ornamental gardens. Heads can be dried for long-lasting flower arrangements. [source]
Seed Source for Birds and Pollinators
WildlifeLeft unharvested, amaranthus grain heads provide valuable seed food for songbirds and other wildlife. Flowers attract pollinators including bees and butterflies. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For tender greens: Begin harvesting outer leaves when plant is 6-8 inches tall by pinching or cutting; continue harvesting throughout season for continuous supply. For grain: Wait until seed heads are fully mature and dark red (typically 3-4 months after planting); cut entire heads and hang upside down in a warm, dry location for 2-3 weeks; thresh by rubbing heads between hands over a cloth to release seeds; winnow to separate chaff from grain. Store dried grain in cool, dry conditions.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Amaranthus Red Stripe is a descendant of the grain that sustained the Aztec civilization, which valued it both nutritionally and spiritually; it was outlawed by Spanish conquistadors but has experienced a major revival.
- 🌱 The name 'amaranthus' comes from the Greek word meaning 'unfading flower,' referring to the papery flower bracts that maintain their color even when dried.
- 🌱 Amaranthus is technically a pseudocereal (like quinoa), not a true grain, meaning it's the seed of a broad-leafed plant rather than a grass, yet provides complete amino acid profiles similar to true grains.
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