Amaranthus bidentata
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Annual
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know how well it will grow in Britain, though it should succeed as a spring-sown annual. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a well-drained fertile soil in a sunny position. Requires a hot sheltered position if it is to do well[K]. Plants should not be given inorganic fertilizers, see notes above on toxicity. Most if not all members of this genus photosynthesize by a more efficient method than most plants. Called the 'C4 carbon-fixation pathway', this process is particularly efficient at high temperatures, in bright sunlight and under dry conditions.
Propagation
Seed - sow late spring in situ. Germination is usually rapid and good if the soil is warm. An earlier sowing can be made in pots in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick out the seedlings into individual pots and plant out in late spring, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of growing plants root easily.
Edible uses
Leaves - cooked. Used as a spinach. Seed - cooked. Very small and fiddly, but the seed is very nutritious. The seed can be cooked whole, and becomes very gelatinous like this, but it is rather difficult to crush all of the small seeds in the mouth and thus some of the seed will pass right through the digestive system without being assimilated[K].
Medicinal uses
The leaves are antiphlogistic, diuretic, emmenagogue and tonic.
Material uses
Yellow and green dyes can be obtained from the whole plant.
Habitat
Roadsides and waste places.
Native range
E. Asia - China