Amaranth

Amaranth seeds are an easy to grow, drought tolerant annual that is classified as a pseudocereal, meaning it is not technically a grain, like oats or wheat, but it contains a comparable set of nutrients. Amaranth is complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids including lysine, which is typically absent from cereal grains. The rice-like grain is naturally gluten-free and rich in fiber, micronutrients and antioxidants. Grow Amaranth from seed to enjoy its earthy, nut-based flavor as a staple food crop. Also enjoy the harvest of its tender young leaves to add some bright color to salads all summer long. Amaranth is available in more than 60 different species and was once a staple food crop of the Inca, Maya and Aztec civilizations. Amaranth is also grown extensively as a cut flower and used both fresh and dried by designers. Plant Amaranth as a colorful option for annual landscaping beds. It's a fabulous pop of color and texture. Amaranth comes in a variety of interesting colors ranging from burst sienna, copper, maroon, deep burgundy, flame red, lime green and coral.