Species California Amaranth
Green leaves with yellow-green veins on brown stems

California Amaranth

Amaranthus californicus

California Amaranth (Amaranthus californicus) is an annual herb native to the western region of North America. Growing up to 80 cm tall, this plant features multiple upright stems with ascending branchlets, and oval-shaped, petiolate leaves. Covered in tiny, green-golden flowers, it blooms and thrives in dry and disturbed soils, and is a common sight along roadsides and in open fields. California Amaranth is a valuable source of food and green manure, and has a long history of medicinal uses. The hardy nature and ability to thrive in dry, neglected soils make it an ideal companion plant in home gardens, as it provides quick ground cover and increases nutrient levels in the soil.

Watering:

Frequent

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Water Amarante Livide deeply once a week to encourage a healthy root system. Make sure the soil is moist and not too wet. Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out in between waterings and be sure not to let the soil become soggy or dry out completely. Additionally, if the days are hot and dry, you may need to water more often to keep the soil moist. If the climate is humid, reduce the amount and frequency of waterings.

sunlight

Amarante Livide is a plant species that does best in areas of full sunlight. This plant should receive 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day to ensure healthy growth. If the plant doesn’t receive enough sunlight, the stems may become weak and the leaves may appear pale in color. It is best to provide the Amarante Livide with sunlight during the morning and early afternoon hours so that it receives the most beneficial light for growth. During the hottest periods of the summer, it is also beneficial to provide shade to the Amarante Livide by using a net, cloth, or other form of cover to help protect the plant from intense heat.

pruning

Amarante Livide should be pruned in late spring or early summer after the last frost of the year has past. Prune the plants when they are 8 inches tall or more and cut them down to 4–6 inches tall. This will promote vigorous new growth that will make the plants more bushy and attractive. Additionally, deadheading the flowers will keep the growth and blooms plentiful. When performing any pruning, always use clean and sharp shears, and make sure to remove any dead or damaged stems and leaves.

⚠️ Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.