Amaranthus thunbergii, commonly known as Thunberg’s amaranthus or Thunberg’s pigweed, is an annual herb native to open grasslands and disturbed sites in southern Africa. It is characterized by its erect growth habit, typically reaching heights of 1 to 2 feet (0.3 to 0.6 meters). The plant features green to reddish stems and simple, ovate leaves that are often tinged with purple. During the summer months, it produces small, greenish flowers in dense terminal spikes, which are not particularly showy but are interesting texturally. The seeds are tiny, and the plant is known for its prolific seed production.

Thunberg’s amaranthus is valued for its drought tolerance and is sometimes used in xeriscaping. It can also be cultivated as a leafy vegetable, with young leaves being edible and used in a similar fashion to spinach. In cultivation, it requires minimal care, thriving in full sun and tolerating a wide range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soils. It is not commonly found in ornamental horticulture but may be used in restoration projects or as a food crop. Gardeners should be cautious, as Amaranthus thunbergii can become weedy and potentially invasive outside its native range, particularly in warm climates.CC BY-SA 4.0