Amaranthus blitum subsp. emarginatus
Purple amaranth (Amaranthus blitum) is a landscape weed indigenous to central Europe that can now be found throughout eastern North America. Stems grow up to 3 feet in height with green or purplish leaves. Flowers grow as a large spike with small male and female flowers clustered together. In Florida, Amaranth can be grown as a vegetable and is viewed as a potential cash crop.
- Scientific Name: Amaranthus blitum subsp. emarginatus
- Common Name: Purple amaranth, Guernsey pigweed
- Seasonality: Year-round
- Soil Type: Wet or dry
- Toxicity: Non-toxic, enjoyed as a delicacy in some Mediterranean cultures
- Plant Growth: Upright (up to 3 feet tall) annual
- UF/IFAS Extension Publication: Production Guide of Vegetable Amaranth for Florida
