Also known as Carelessweed · Dioecious Amaranth · Palmer Amaranth
Palmer's Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) is a rapidly growing, aggressive weed known for its high biomass production and significant agricultural impact.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Infrequent, deep watering
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Drought tolerant once established.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, typically above 21°C (70°F). Sensitive to frost.
Low feeder
25% intensity
Prefers lean to average soil. Avoid heavy fertilization, which can cause weak growth.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Palmer's Amaranth is highly drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in poorly draining soil. Monitor young plants closely and water more regularly until they are well-established.
Pruning is generally not required for Palmer's Amaranth, as it is typically grown as an annual. If you wish to shape the plant or encourage bushier growth, light pinching of the stem tips in early spring can be done.
Remove any dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain appearance.
Palmer's Amaranth is easily propagated by seed. Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost, as they require warm soil to germinate.
Seeds can also be started indoors a few weeks before the last frost, but transplanting can be challenging due to their taproot. "",
Repotting is generally not applicable as Palmer's Amaranth is an annual plant. If grown in containers, it will typically complete its life cycle within a single season.
If attempting to overwinter a specimen (which is uncommon), ensure the new container is only slightly larger and provide appropriate drainage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Palmer's Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Amaranthus |
| Species | Amaranthus palmeri |
Similar in genus Amaranthus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
