Amaranthus
Amaranth
Amaranthaceae
Annuals, Vegetables
Coarse, sometimes weedy plants native to many regions of the world; ornamental kindsare grown for their brightlycolored foliage or flowers. Sow seeds in place in early summer—soil temperature must be above 70°F (21°C) for germination. Or start indoors for planting out after frost danger is past in zones where the growing season is short.
If picked when young and tender, the leaves and stems of many species can be used like spinach, taking its place in hot weather. Some species have seeds that look like sesame seeds, have a high protein content, and can be used as grain.
A sturdy, branching plant 3–8 ft. high and 1 1/2–3 ft. wide. The light green leaves can reach 10 in. long and 4 in. wide. Their color makes a nice contrast to the red flowers in drooping, tassel-like clusters to 2 ft. long. More of a curiosity than a pretty plant, but it does produce grain.
Eschscholzia caespitosa
Native to California and southwestern Oregon. Grows about 6 in. high and wide, with threadlike leaves ...
Heliopsis helianthoides
Native to the eastern half of North America, extending southwest to Arizona. The species is rarely off...
Cabbage And Kale, Flowering
Flowering cabbage and flowering kale are grown for their leaf rosettes, which look like giant, deep bl...
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