Also known as Common Tumbleweed · Pigweed · Pigweed Amaranth
Prostrate Pigweed (Amaranthus albus) is a sprawling annual weed with small, inconspicuous flowers and a widespread distribution. It thrives in disturbed soils.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings; drought tolerant once established.
Sandy, Loamy, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers average to warm temperatures; an annual that grows actively in summer.
Low
25% intensity
Not a heavy feeder; thrives in average to poor soil; fertilize sparingly if needed.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Amaranthus albus prefers well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established. Water moderately during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Check soil moisture by feeling the top few centimeters.
Pruning is generally not required for Amaranthus albus as it is an annual with a sprawling growth habit. If plants become overgrown or leggy, light trimming can be done in early summer to encourage bushier growth.
Remove any dead or damaged stems as needed.
Amaranthus albus is easily propagated by seed. Sow seeds directly outdoors in spring after the last frost. Seeds can also be started indoors a few weeks prior to transplanting.
No special treatment is usually needed for germination.
As an annual plant, Amaranthus albus is not typically repotted. If starting seeds indoors in pots, transplant them to their final location when they have developed a few true leaves.
Ensure adequate spacing for their spreading habit.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Prostrate Pigweed (Amaranthus albus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Amaranthus |
| Species | Amaranthus albus |
Similar in genus Amaranthus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
