How to Grow Red Amaranth Yin Yang
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Red Amaranth Yin Yang
Amaranthus tricolor
vegetableRed Amaranth Yin Yang is a striking ornamental and edible variety featuring dramatic red and green foliage with distinctive two-toned coloring on the leaves. The plant produces edible leaves, stems, and grain-like seeds that are highly nutritious. It thrives in warm climates and is valued both for its culinary applications and stunning visual appeal in gardens.
When should you plant Red Amaranth Yin Yang in your zone?
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Example Red Amaranth Yin Yang timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Red Amaranth Yin Yang
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 Yin Yang
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Red Amaranth Yin Yang dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-11; can be grown as annual in cooler zones 2-5
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Get my Red Amaranth Yin Yang timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
10-14 daysTiny plants with first true leaves emerging; delicate appearance with initial green coloring beginning to show.
Keep soil moist but not wet. Provide 12-14 hours of light daily if growing indoors. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once they have 2-3 true leaves.
Early Vegetative
2-3 weeksPlants establish root system and produce multiple leaves; distinctive red and green bicolor pattern becomes more apparent on newer growth.
Begin fertilizing every 2-3 weeks with balanced or slightly nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Ensure consistent moisture. Red coloration intensifies with more sunlight.
Mid-Vegetative
3-4 weeksRobust foliage development with the characteristic Yin Yang pattern fully visible; plant reaches 12-24 inches in height with substantial leaf production.
Continue regular fertilization. Pinch top growth if desired to encourage bushier plants. Scout for pests regularly. Ensure adequate spacing for airflow.
Flowering/Seed Development
3-4 weeksDense flower spikes develop at the top and leaf axils; plants can reach 24-36 inches tall. Tiny flowers precede grain-like seed formation.
Reduce nitrogen fertilization to encourage seed set over excessive leaf growth. Continue watering regularly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Support tall plants if needed.
Harvest-Ready
Ongoing through seasonLeaves reach full color intensity with vibrant red and green contrast. Seed heads become heavy and mature; seeds turn dark brown or black when fully ripe.
Begin harvesting outer leaves anytime during this stage. For seed harvest, wait until seed heads are fully dry and brown; cut and dry further before threshing.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Use row covers on young plants; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; plant strongly aromatic herbs nearby; ensure consistent soil moisture.
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Increase humidity by misting; spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil; ensure good airflow between plants.
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Hand-pick; use row covers; apply spinosad or pyrethrin sprays; encourage natural predators.
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Spray with strong water spray; use insecticidal soap; apply neem oil; attract beneficial insects like ladybugs.
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Improve airflow and reduce humidity; spray with sulfur dust or fungicide; remove affected leaves; avoid overhead watering.
Uses
Leafy Green Vegetable
CulinaryRed Amaranth Yin Yang leaves are tender, mild, and slightly sweet when young; similar in use to spinach or chard. Sauté, add to stir-fries, soups, or serve raw in salads for visual drama and nutritional benefit. [source]
Grain and Seed Harvest
CulinaryDried seeds are a complete protein source containing all essential amino acids; can be popped like popcorn, ground into flour, or cooked as a grain pilaf. Traditional staple food in many cultures. [source]
Nutritional Supplement
MedicinalAmaranth leaves and seeds are rich in vitamins A, C, and K; calcium; iron; and antioxidants. Traditionally used in herbal medicine for blood health and inflammatory conditions. [source]
Garden Ornament
OrnamentalThe striking red and green Yin Yang variegated foliage makes this plant exceptionally attractive in garden beds, containers, and landscapes. The dramatic color contrasts intensify in full sun. [source]
Wildlife Food Source
WildlifeAmaranth seeds are attractive to birds and beneficial insects; the plant supports pollinators during flowering. Left unharvested, plants provide seed food for garden 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
Begin harvesting outer leaves once plants are 6-8 inches tall, typically 4-6 weeks after planting. Pinch off tender young leaves and growing tips for best flavor and texture. Harvest regularly to encourage continuous production. For seed harvest, allow flower heads to mature fully, turn brown, and dry completely on the plant or after cutting; thresh seeds by rubbing dried heads between hands over a cloth.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Yin Yang' refers to the striking bicolor red and green leaf pattern that resembles the traditional Yin Yang symbol, with deeper red coloration developing more intensely in cooler conditions and with increased sunlight exposure.
- 🌱 Amaranth has been cultivated for over 8,000 years and was a staple crop of the Aztecs; it was so valued that it was used in religious ceremonies, which led the Spanish conquistadors to suppress its cultivation.
- 🌱 Amaranth is one of the few plant-based foods that contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein comparable to animal sources—historically significant for vegetarian and vegan diets.
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