Tumbleweed Amaranth
amaranthus albus
Also known as: ["Tumbleweed","Tumble Pigweed","White Amaranth"]
Overview
A small, annual herbaceous plant with a weedy growth habit, known for its small, greenish flowers and tendency to break off at the base and roll in the wind as a tumbleweed.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Amaranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Amaranthus albus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; no strict schedule.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; focus on tidiness rather than shaping.
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 if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; supplement with grow lights if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); tolerates heat but may struggle below 50°F/10°C.
Monitor nighttime temperatures; use shade cloth in summer; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none required in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing before flowering to avoid excessive foliage.
Propagation
Methods
Seed; easily grown from direct sowing or indoor starts.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Thin seedlings when true leaves appear.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for outdoor planting; year-round in warm climates.
Environment
Warm, bright location with consistent moisture; no special humidity needed.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam.
Hormone
Not required for seeds.
Timeline
Germination in 7–14 days; mature plants in 60–90 days.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, soil, water spray bottle, labels.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in groups; thin to strongest seedlings; avoid overcrowding.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves; pinch back stems to encourage bushiness if desired.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged foliage as needed.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead material; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; replant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Not typically required for outdoor plants; container-grown plants may need repotting every 1–2 years.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
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; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter or drought; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; mix in sand or perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature flowering in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; risk of frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced vigor; may bolt prematurely in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilization.
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 albus is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested in small to moderate amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in small to moderate amounts
Dogs
Non-toxicAmaranthus albus is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested in small to moderate amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in small to moderate amounts
Humans
Non-toxicAmaranthus albus is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Amaranthus albus edible?
A: While some parts of the plant are edible, it is generally considered a weed and not commonly consumed.
Q: Does it spread easily?
A: Yes, it spreads rapidly via wind-dispersed seeds and can become invasive in some regions.
Q: How do I control its growth?
A: Hand-pulling or mowing before seed set can help control its spread.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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