Grain Amaranth: Burgundy
(Amaranthus cruentus, A. hypochondriacus)
Grain amaranths are annual plants and include several species of Amaranthus grown specifically for the seeds which are usually lighter colored than vegetable amaranth varieties. The cultivation of grain amaranths as food plants is traceable to ancient Aztec civilizations of Mexico. The grain amaranth species are highly variable; some experimentation with strains of available species may be necessary to find one suitable to a new area.
Grain amaranth that grows 2m in height and produces red stems and flowers and abundant white edible seeds. Mature plants may need staking to support the weight of the seed heads. (A. hypochondriacus)