Sour Goosefoot, Wild tampala
amaranthus dubius
Also known as: ["Wild tampala","Sour goosefoot"]
Overview
Amaranthus dubius is an annual herbaceous plant known for its edible leaves and stems, often used in traditional cuisines.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Amaranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Amaranthus dubius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a warm, sunny area or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; lightly prune throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid over-fertilizing; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings root easily in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water; perlite or sand can improve drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 1–3 weeks; plants establish in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; change water regularly if using water propagation; maintain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove yellow or dead leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage; encourage bushier growth; improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in fresh soil with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot if roots are crowded or growth slows; typically every 1–2 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
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 early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or necrotic; susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move potted plants indoors; use row covers for garden plants.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, or premature seed set.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAmaranthus dubius is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects when ingested by felines in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAmaranthus dubius is not considered toxic to dogs. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested by canines in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAmaranthus dubius, commonly known as slender amaranth, is generally considered non-toxic to humans when consumed in moderation. It is often used as a leafy green vegetable in various cuisines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Amaranthus dubius edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and stems are edible and commonly used in traditional cuisines.
Q: Does Amaranthus dubius attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Amaranthus dubius a weed?
A: Yes, it is often considered a weed due to its rapid growth and spread.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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