Green amaranth
amaranthus deflexus
Also known as: ["Green amaranth","Green pigweed"]
Overview
A small annual herbaceous plant in the Amaranthaceae family, known for its green foliage and small flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Amaranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Amaranthus deflexus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors with supplemental grow lights.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers stable warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use slow-release fertilizer for convenience.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is easiest; stem cuttings can also be used.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly or take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth and light.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or perlite and peat moss blend.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 7–14 days; cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pruners, rooting hormone, humidity dome, grow lights.
Quick Tips
Use bottom heat for faster germination; keep soil consistently moist; harden off seedlings before transplanting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves; pinch back stems to promote bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too large to avoid waterlogging.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only if roots are crowded or soil is depleted; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; avoid over-potting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat for seedlings; cover outdoor plants during frost.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or premature flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAmaranthus deflexus is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would harm feline health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAmaranthus deflexus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that would pose a risk to canine health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAmaranthus deflexus is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It lacks significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Amaranthus deflexus edible?
A: While some Amaranthus species are edible, the edibility of Amaranthus deflexus is not well-documented and should be approached with caution.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it can attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its flowers.
Q: How does this plant grow?
A: It is an annual weed that spreads quickly in disturbed soils and can tolerate poor conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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