Prince-Of-Wales Feather

(Amaranthus hypochondriacus)

Prince-Of-Wales Feather (Amaranthus hypochondriacus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Amaranthus hypochondriacus, commonly known as Prince-Of-Wales Feather, is an annual herb native to Mexico and has been cultivated since ancient times by various cultures, including the Aztecs. It thrives in a variety of habitats, including open areas and fields. This plant typically reaches 40–200 cm (15–80 in) in height and features vigorous, upright growth. The foliage can vary in color from green to purple, and the plant produces dense, catkin-like inflorescences in the summer and autumn. The flowers are usually deep purplish-red, adding a striking visual element to gardens, but some varieties may display yellow-green blooms. Following the flowering season, the plant produces dry fruits that are 1.5–3 mm (1⁄16–1⁄8 in) long and split open when ripe.

Prince-Of-Wales Feather is valued for its ornamental flowers and its nutritious leaves and seeds, which are a source of protein and essential amino acids. It is often used in ornamental gardens for its vibrant foliage and flowers, and can also be grown for its edible parts. The plant is suitable for a range of uses, including border planting and as a grain crop. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure, and can tolerate a range of soil types. It is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3–10. Cultivars such as ’Green Thumb’ and ’Pygmy Torch’ have been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. While generally easy to maintain, the plant may attract aphids and require pest management. It is important to note that Amaranthus hypochondriacus should be monitored for self-seeding, as it can become weedy in some conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Red, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to Mexico and cultivated fields

Other Names

Common Names: Prince’s-Feather, Prince’s-Feather Amaranth, Prince Of Wales-Feather, Prince-Of-Wales-Feather, Trauer-Fuchsschwanz, Amarante Hypocondriaque, Toppamarant, Grain Amaranth, Prince’s Feather, Grünähriger Fuchsschwanz

Scientific Names: , Amaranthus hypochondriacus, Amaranthus hybridus subsp. hypochondriacus, Amaranthus hybridus f. hypochondriacus, Amaranthus monstrosus, Amaranthus atrosanguineus, Amaranthus hybridus var. hypochondriacus, Amaranthus hypochondriacus var. hypochondriacus, Amaranthus hypochondriacus var. macrostachys, Amaranthus hypochondriacus var. monstrosus

GBIF Accepted Name: Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.