Amaranthus L. Amaranthoideae. Amaranth. Herbaceous perennial. Genus name means 'unfading' in reference to thedurability of the colour in the flowers. 'Red Velvet' is a garden cultivar. Various species are used in Brazil 'to increase lactation'. Matthiolus (1569) in his commentary, unsurprisingly in view of its red flowers (the word 'flowers' is a synonym for menses), recommends Amaranthus for stopping heavy periods and leucorrhoea, as well as for coughing up blood and dysentery.

Leaves cooked as spinach.