|
AMARANTH
|
|
|
 |
Amaranth is the common name for members of a family (Amaranthaceae) of warm-region herbs, trees, and vines, especially those of the genus Amaranthus, often characterized by reddish pigment in the stems and leaves. Many species, including tumbleweed, A. alba, are troublesome weeds. Other species are flowering perennials and garden ornamentals, such as love-lies-bleeding, or tasselflower, A. caudatus, which has crimson, chenille-textured flower spikes, and A. tricolor, with its green, yellow, scarlet, or multicolored leaves.
A. caudatus is thought to be the species that was cultivated in Mexico as a food plant until it was almost extirpated by the Spanish conquistadors, who associated its use with Aztec blood rituals. in the Far East and India several amaranth species are cultivated today as green vegetables, or for their edible seeds, which contain more high-quality protein than wheat. Research holds out great promise for the development of amaranth species that will be heavy grain producers, with the potential for cultivation in harsh climates and difficult soils.
|
