How to Grow Red Amaranth
iNaturalist
Red Amaranth
Amaranthus cruentus
vegetableRed Amaranth is a vibrant leafy green with deep red to burgundy foliage and edible seeds. The plant produces attractive grain heads and tender leaves rich in nutrients, commonly used in Asian, African, and Caribbean cuisines. It thrives in warm conditions and is highly drought-tolerant once established.
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Example Red Amaranth timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Red Amaranth
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 Red Amaranth
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Red Amaranth dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-11 as a warm-season annual; best production in zones 5-10
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with two oval cotyledons and first true leaves visible within 5-7 days.
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once they have 2-3 true leaves. Transplant outdoors after last frost.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops multiple stems with increasingly larger deep red leaves. Stems are sturdy and may show red or green coloration.
Water regularly during this stage. Apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks or use compost. Monitor for pests. Pinch top to encourage bushier growth if desired.
Leaf Maturation
2-3 weeksLeaves reach full size and develop rich color. Plant is densely leafed and can be harvested for culinary use.
Begin harvesting outer leaves once plant is 6-8 inches tall. This encourages continued production. Maintain consistent moisture and fertilizer.
Flowering & Grain Production
4-6 weeksTall flower spikes emerge from the top of the plant with dense clusters of tiny red flowers followed by grain seeds.
Stop harvesting leaves if grain production is the goal. Provide consistent water and nutrients. Support tall plants with stakes if needed. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer.
Seed Maturity & Harvest
2-3 weeksGrain heads dry down, leaves yellow slightly, and seeds are hard and difficult to crush between fingernails.
Stop watering to allow full drying. Cut entire heads when fully mature. Dry indoors for 2-4 weeks before threshing.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Handpick affected leaves; use neem oil spray; encourage natural predators; severe infestations may require Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis)
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Use row covers on seedlings; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase plant vigor through proper watering and fertilization
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Protect seedlings with cardboard collars; remove garden debris; water in morning; shallow cultivation around plants
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil; increase humidity; release predatory mites if severe
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Use well-draining, disease-free soil; practice crop rotation; avoid overwatering; apply beneficial nematodes
Uses
Leafy Green Vegetable
CulinaryYoung tender leaves are nutritious and can be cooked like spinach or eaten raw in salads. They have a mild, slightly earthy flavor and are staples in Caribbean, West African, and Southeast Asian cuisines. [source]
Grain & Seeds
CulinaryAmaranth seeds are a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids. They can be popped like popcorn, ground into flour, or cooked as a grain. [source]
Nutritional Supplement
MedicinalRed Amaranth is exceptionally high in vitamin C, potassium, manganese, and antioxidants. It may support immune function and cardiovascular health. [source]
Natural Food Coloring
HouseholdThe deep red pigments contain betalains and anthocyanins that can be extracted for natural food dyes and colorants. [source]
Bird & Pollinator Support
WildlifeAmaranth flowers attract beneficial insects and pollinators, while mature seed heads provide food for songbirds and wildlife. [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 fresh leaves, begin harvesting once the plant is 6-8 inches tall by pinching off the top 2-3 inches or removing outer leaves. Continue harvesting throughout the season to promote bushiness and prevent flowering. For grain, allow the plant to mature fully, then cut entire heads when the grain is hard and seeds pop off easily. Dry completely indoors before threshing and storing.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Red Amaranth has been cultivated for over 8,000 years and was a sacred staple crop of the Aztecs, who valued it for both nutrition and ceremonial use.
- 🌱 The name 'amaranth' comes from the Greek words meaning 'unfading flower' because the flowers retain their color even when dried.
- 🌱 A single Red Amaranth plant can produce up to 60,000 seeds, making it one of the most prolific seed producers among vegetables.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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