Amaranth

Amaranth combines striking foliage, conspicuous flower heads and, in certain cultivated forms, useful leaves or grain. The name refers to plants in the genus Amaranthus, in the family Amaranthaceae. It does not identify a single species or a single use. Some selections belong mainly in ornamental borders, while others are grown as leafy vegetables or for their tiny seeds.The flower heads give many amaranths their distinctive silhouette. Depending on the species and cultivar, they stand upright or hang in long tassels, with colours ranging from crimson and burgundy to green or gold. Their effect comes from the dense grouping of many small flowers rather than large individual blooms. The foliage can be just as prominent, with broad green, red or purple leaves contributing to the overall display.Size and habit vary considerably. Certain forms provide a tall accent above neighbouring vegetables and flowers; others make a more compact mass of leaves.…