AMARANTH 1. Introduction Amaranth, known scientifically as Amaranthus spp., is a versatile and nutritious plant with a rich history of cultivation. This guide offers comprehensive insights into growing and caring for amaranth, exploring its botanical details, growing conditions, and various uses. Amaranthus caudatus may have been domesticated from an early introduction of A. cruentus that then crossed with a wild Amaranthus in the region. Chan and Sun (1997) found evidence with isozyme and RAPD markers suggesting that A. hybridus is a common ancestor to all the cultivated grain species. The archaeological record shows domesticated amaranth seeds appearing over a wide range, from Argentina into the southern United States. Grain amaranth was used by various Indian groups in the ... Amaranth plants typically are annuals or short-lived perennials. The stems often are reddish in colour and sometimes are armed with spines; they bear simple alternately arranged leaves and often feature a pinkish taproot. Approximately 50-60 species of Amaranthus are found in India alone. A. tricolor is commonly grown in South and Southeast Asia, A. cruentus in Africa, and A. dubius in the Caribbean area.
