Amaranthus tricolor

Amaranthus tricolor, also known as Joseph's Coat, is a species of annual flowering plant. It is a member of the Amaranthaceae family, which includes well-known plants such as beets, spinach, and quinoa.

Description

Amaranthus tricolor is a tall, upright plant that can reach heights of 2-4 feet. It has large, colorful leaves that can be red, gold, or green. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the summer.

Cultivation

Amaranthus tricolor is a warm season plant that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is often grown as an ornamental plant for its striking foliage. In addition to its ornamental uses, it is also cultivated for its edible leaves in many parts of the world, particularly in Asia.

Uses

The leaves of Amaranthus tricolor are edible and are often used in cooking. They can be used in a similar way to spinach, either raw in salads or cooked in soups and stews. In addition to their culinary uses, the leaves are also known for their high nutritional value, containing significant amounts of vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, and protein.

Cultivars

There are several cultivars of Amaranthus tricolor available, each with its own unique leaf coloration. Some of the most popular include 'Illumination', with its bright red and gold leaves, and 'Perfecta', which has tricolored leaves in shades of red, gold, and green.

See also

• Amaranthus
• Amaranthaceae
• Edible plants