How to Grow Red Leaf Amaranth
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Red Leaf Amaranth
Amaranthus cruentus
vegetableRed leaf amaranth is a heat-loving annual with deep crimson to burgundy foliage and ornamental flower plumes. Both the nutritious leaves and grain-like seeds are edible, making it a dual-purpose crop valued in African, Asian, and Caribbean cuisines. The plant thrives in warm climates and is notably drought-tolerant once established.
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Example Red Leaf Amaranth timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Red Leaf 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 Leaf Amaranth
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Best in zones 6-11; can be grown as a summer annual in cooler zones if planted after last frost
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Get my Red Leaf Amaranth timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
7-10 daysTiny seedlings emerge with cotyledons (seed leaves). Plants are delicate and may appear threadlike initially.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart when they develop true leaves. Provide bright light to prevent leggy growth.
Seedling to Early Vegetative
2-3 weeksTrue leaves emerge with characteristic reddish coloration beginning to show. Plants are 2-6 inches tall with 4-6 true leaves.
Continue thinning to final spacing (12-18 inches). Begin light fertilization with balanced organic fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Ensure adequate sunlight for color development.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksRobust plants with deep red foliage, 12-24+ inches tall. Lower leaves can be harvested without damaging the plant. Vigorous growth phase.
Begin harvesting outer leaves when plant is 8+ inches tall. Fertilize every 3 weeks. Water during dry spells. Monitor for pests.
Flowering and Seed Development
3-4 weeksDistinctive upright or drooping flower plumes (panicles) appear at the top and along the stem, ranging from deep red to burgundy. Plumes extend 4-12 inches.
Reduce nitrogen fertilization to avoid excess leaf growth. Continue watering moderately. Allow some plumes to mature for seed harvest if desired.
Maturity and Harvest
2-3 weeksFlower plumes dry and seeds develop. Foliage may begin to fade slightly. Plant reaches full height (24-48 inches depending on variety).
Allow plumes to dry on the plant for seed collection. Cut entire flower heads when they turn brown-red and feel dry to the touch. Dry further indoors for 1-2 weeks before threshing seeds.
Common Pests
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Use row covers on seedlings. Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap. Remove debris where beetles overwinter.
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Increase humidity by misting. Use horticultural oil or neem oil spray. Ensure adequate watering during heat stress.
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Spray with water to dislodge. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Hand-pick larger caterpillars. Use Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray for heavy infestations.
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Rotate crops. Use nematode-resistant varieties. Amend soil with organic matter.
Uses
Nutritious Cooked Greens
CulinaryRed leaf amaranth leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, calcium, and iron. Steam, sauté, or boil young leaves like spinach for a mineral-dense side dish. The slightly nutty, earthy flavor complements grains and soups. [source]
Seeds for Grains and Porridge
CulinaryAmaranth seeds are a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids, making them valuable for vegetarian and vegan diets. Pop seeds like popcorn, cook as a porridge, or grind into flour for baking. [source]
Traditional Health Remedy
MedicinalAmaranth has been used in traditional African and Asian medicine to support blood health and reduce inflammation. The high mineral content may help address iron deficiency anemia. [source]
Natural Food Coloring
HouseholdThe deep red pigments in amaranth leaves and stems can be extracted and used as a natural food dye or colorant in smoothies, rice dishes, and baked goods. [source]
Decorative Garden Accent
OrnamentalThe striking burgundy foliage and ornamental flower plumes make red leaf amaranth an attractive addition to flower borders, containers, and tropical garden designs. The dried seed heads persist into fall. [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 leaf harvest: Begin picking outer leaves when plant is 8-10 inches tall; harvest regularly to encourage branching and continuous production. Young, tender leaves (2-4 inches) are most tender. For seed harvest: Allow flower plumes to fully mature and dry on the plant until they turn brownish-red. Cut plumes and hang to dry indoors for 1-2 weeks, then rub between hands over a screen to release seeds. Store dried seeds in a cool, dry place.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Amaranth was a staple crop of the Aztecs, who valued it as highly as maize and beans; the Spanish conquistadors banned it due to its use in religious ceremonies.
- 🌱 The plant is remarkable for its C4 photosynthesis pathway, making it extremely efficient at converting sunlight to biomass and highly heat and drought-tolerant compared to most vegetables.
- 🌱 A single amaranth plant can produce up to 60,000 seeds, making it one of the most prolific grain crops and allowing for easy seed saving by home gardeners.
Gardening Terms
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