Amaranthus cruentus

Amaranthus cruentus is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Amaranthaceae family. It is commonly known as red amaranth, purple amaranth, Mexican grain amaranth, and Prince-of-Wales feather. This species is native to Mexico and Central America but is now cultivated worldwide for its edible seeds and leaves.

Description

Amaranthus cruentus is an annual plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall. The leaves are typically lanceolate, 3–15 cm long and 2–8 cm wide. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, but the brightly colored bracts make the inflorescence highly visible. The seeds are tiny, around 1 mm in diameter, and are a source of amaranth grain.

Cultivation and uses

Amaranthus cruentus is a highly adaptable plant that can grow in a wide range of conditions. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soils. The plant is cultivated for its seeds, which are used as a grain in many cultures. The seeds are high in protein, fiber, and essential amino acids. The leaves of the plant are also edible and are used as a leafy vegetable in many cuisines.

In addition to its uses as a food crop, Amaranthus cruentus is also used in traditional medicine. The leaves and seeds are used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive disorders, respiratory problems, and skin conditions.

Taxonomy

The species was first described by Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1753. The genus name Amaranthus comes from the Greek amarantos, meaning 'unfading', in reference to the long-lasting flowers of some species. The species name cruentus is Latin for 'bloody', a reference to the red color of the plant's inflorescences.

See also

• Amaranthus hypochondriacus
• Amaranthus caudatus
• Amaranthus dubius