Common Amaranth
Dodo
Amaranthus viridis
Herbaceous plant growing in a small garden plot at Eldoret, Kenya, Africa. April 2011.
HERB: Herbaceous plant that will grow to two meters if left unharvested.
Generally one or a few upright stems.
FLOWERS: The flowers are numerous and small without showy petals. They
are crowded together in terminal spikes together with numerous bracts (small
leaf-like structures). The bracts are shorter than in related weedy versions.
May release considerable pollen.
LEAVES: Leaves are broadly triangular to deltoid (tapered at base and
tip).
RANGE: This plant is native to tropical habitats around the world. It is
widely grown in warm to hot climates for the leafy vegetable.
FRUIT: Seeds enclosed singly in each small ovary. The seeds may be
harvested for grain as well.
UNARMED. Most plants are without any sharps.
Developing seeds and flowers with a Leaf-footed Bug.