Large-fruit amaranth, Low amaranth
Amaranthus deflexus

Family: Amaranthaceae

What it is like

A herb that keeps growing from year to year. It only lives for a few years. It lies along the ground and can curve upwards. It can be 12-45 cm long. It usually branches at the base. The leaves usually have hairs along the edges and underneath. The leaves are 1-5 cm long by 1-3 cm wide. They are broadly oval. The flower spikes are reddish-green.

Where it is found

It is a warm temperate plant. It is common in Mediterranean regions. In California it grows between sea level and 700 m above sea level.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Argentina, Asia, Australia, Balkans, Brazil, Britain, Central Asia, Chile, China, Croatia, East Africa, Europe, Japan, Kenya, Korea, Lesotho, Mexico, North America, Pakistan, Peru, Slovenia, South Africa, Southern Africa, South America, Tajikistan, Tasmania, Turkey, Türkiye, Uruguay, USA, Zimbabwe

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Leaves, seeds, vegetable

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Bledo rastrero, Polegli ščir, Spreading amaranth

Synonyms

Albersia deflexa (L.) Fourr.; Albersia prostrata (Bastard) Kunth; Amarantellus argentinus Speg.; Amaranthus minor (Moq.) Sennen; Amaranthus perennis Bellardi ex Colla; Amaranthus prostratus Balb.; Galliaria prostrata (Bastard) Bubani; Glomeraria deflexa (L.) Cav.;