Prince's Feather
amaranthus hypochondriacus
Also known as: ["Prince's Feather","Red Amaranth","Mexican Grain Amaranth"]
Overview
A tall annual plant with striking red or purple foliage and spire-like inflorescences, valued for ornamental and culinary purposes.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Amaranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Amaranthus hypochondriacus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun exposure
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, but typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); thrives in heat but can tolerate cooler nights.
Monitor nighttime temperatures; provide shade in extreme heat; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent nutrient burn; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root damage; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss mixture.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–3 weeks; plants can be transplanted in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove dead or yellowing leaves; cut back stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning or evening; remove dead or diseased parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for larger varieties to support growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a few weeks.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or flower drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with a frost cloth if temperatures drop below 50°F; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; flowers may drop prematurely; growth may become leggy.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicAmaranthus hypochondriacus is slightly toxic to cats if ingested in large quantities. The oxalates present in the leaves and seeds can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation. Cats are generally not attracted to this plant, but accidental ingestion may occur.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicWhile Amaranthus hypochondriacus is not highly toxic to dogs, ingestion of large quantities of leaves or seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's oxalate content. The plant is not typically considered a significant threat to canine health.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicAmaranthus hypochondriacus is generally considered non-toxic to humans when consumed in moderation. However, excessive consumption of seeds or leaves may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of oxalates and nitrates. The plant is often cultivated as a grain and leafy vegetable in various cultures.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Amaranthus hypochondriacus edible?
A: Yes, its seeds and leaves are edible and commonly used in culinary applications.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How much water does it need?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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