Amaranthus retroflexus
Amaranthus retroflexus
Amaranthus retroflexus (pronunciation: /æməˈrænθəs ˌrɛtrəˈflɛksəs/), commonly known as redroot pigweed, is a species of flowering plant in the family Amaranthaceae.
Etymology
The genus name Amaranthus is derived from the Greek amarantos (meaning unfading) and anthos (meaning flower). The species name retroflexus is Latin for bent or turned backward, which refers to the characteristic of the plant's leaves and stems.
Description
Amaranthus retroflexus is an annual herb that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It is characterized by its red root, hence the common name, and its greenish flowers. The leaves are alternate and can be up to 10 cm long. The plant is native to the tropical Americas, but it has been introduced to all continents and most larger islands.
Related Terms
- Amaranthaceae: The plant family to which Amaranthus retroflexus belongs.
- Annual plant: A plant that completes its life cycle in one year, like Amaranthus retroflexus.
- Flowering plant: A plant that produces flowers, the reproductive structure of flowering plants.
Uses
Amaranthus retroflexus has been used as a medicinal plant by indigenous peoples in North America. The plant is also edible and can be used as a leaf vegetable.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Amaranthus retroflexus
- Wikipedia's article - Amaranthus retroflexus
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