Copperhead amaranth
$4.00 – $10.00
(Amaranthus sp., likely A. cruentus)
6’/2m tall plants with orange stems and seedheads and green leaves form a striking focal point for the garden. Somewhat more productive than Opopeo in our 2022 trial, and less prone to lodging (falling over). No lodging at all in 2023, so this is swiftly becoming our favourite! In 2023, we averaged 2 Tbsp of seed per plant. I believe this to be Amaranthus cruentus. It has pale yellow seed. 130 days to maturity.
Plant once soil is warm (70º F/21º C), after corn. Cover seeds lightly, thin to 6” between plants, 12-18” between rows. For greens, pinch out growing tip to encourage branching; pick individual leaves like spinach. For grain, allow plants to go to seed, then collect dry heads and rub through a screen into a bucket, or bend over plants and rub seed heads with hands into a bucket; do not hang to dry first. Winnow, and dry further if necessary.
Amaranth may cross with red-rooted pigweed; keep isolated. Pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus) is a pleasant cooked green; eat it before it pollinates your crop! It is easier to maintain purity if you grow a purple-leaved amaranth.