Amaranthus: Approximately 50-60 species of Amaranthus

Approximately 50-60 species of Amaranthus are found in India alone. A. tricolor is commonly grown in South and Southeast Asia, A. cruentus in Africa, and A. dubius in the Caribbean area. Amaranth plants typically are annuals or short-lived perennials. The stems often are reddish in colour and sometimes are armed with spines; they bear simple alternately arranged leaves and often feature a pinkish taproot. This document provides information on the plant Amaranthus , including its botanical name, origin in Central and South America and parts of Asia, and nutritional importance as a source of iron, calcium, vitamins A and C. Amaranth is a multipurpose plant used as grain and leafy vegetable. The extract of Amaranthus is used to treat respiratory disorders, gynecological diseases