Looking for a multipurpose herb to add to your garden? Amaranth has much to offer in terms of edible and ornamental versatility. Amaranth, also known as pigweed, is a genus of herbaceous annuals with a cosmopolitan distribution.

Is amaranth a fruit?

Amaranth species are cultivated and consumed as a leaf vegetable in many parts of the world. Four species of Amaranthus are documented as cultivated vegetables in eastern Asia: Amaranthus cruentus, Amaranthus blitum, Amaranthus dubius, and Amaranthus tricolor.

What class of food is amaranth?

Amaranth is classified as a pseudocereal, meaning that it’s not technically a cereal grain like wheat or oats, but it shares a comparable set of nutrients and is used in similar ways. Its earthy, nutty flavor works well in a variety of dishes ( 1 ).