Amaranthus blitum, commonly known as Purple Amaranth or Guernsey Pigweed, is an annual herb native to South America. It can grow up to 3.3 feet tall and is characterized by its green to purplish ovate leaves and small, clustered flowers that are typically green but can have a reddish tint. The flowers bloom from summer to early fall and are less showy compared to other ornamental species. This plant is often found in warm, temperate areas and is adapted to a range of soil types, though it prefers nitrogen-rich soils.

Purple Amaranth is valued for its edible leaves and seeds, which are used in a variety of culinary traditions. It is also cultivated as a leafy vegetable in some regions and can be a colorful addition to ornamental gardens due to its foliage. In cultivation, it requires minimal care, thriving in full sun to part shade and tolerating a wide range of soil conditions, though it prefers well-drained soils. It is drought-tolerant once established and can be a useful plant for xeriscaping. However, it can become weedy and invasive outside its native range, so gardeners should be cautious and check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0