Strawberry blite
Amaranthus blitum · Amaranthaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant strawberry blite: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, green then reddish
- Flowering
- July to October
- Adult size
- 30 to 80 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Annual, frost-tender
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical America
- Soil type
- Light, well-drained, tolerant
- Exposure
- Sunny to part shade
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, especially in dry weather. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering towards the end of the season. Prefer watering at the base to avoid wetting the foliage.
Exposure
Purple amaranth appreciates a sunny to part shade location for optimal growth. It tolerates bright spots well and develops quickly in full sun. Avoid overly shaded areas which slow its vigor.
Soil and planting
Plant it in light, fertile and well-drained soil. This plant is undemanding and tolerates poor and compacted soils. Adding compost at planting time promotes nice initial growth.
Fertilizing
Feed moderately with a balanced fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks during growth. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowering. Stop fertilizing in late summer.
Pruning and cutting
No mandatory pruning. You can pinch young plants to encourage branching and a more compact shape. Remove faded flowers to extend flowering and prevent unwanted self-seeding.
Diseases and pests
Purple amaranth is generally robust. Watch for powdery mildew in humid conditions: ensure good air circulation. Watch out for aphids and spider mites in hot, dry conditions. Treat with soapy water if necessary.
Did you know?
Purple amaranth is edible and was cultivated as a leafy vegetable in pre-Columbian America and Africa. Its scientific name 'blitum' comes from ancient Greek 'blitton', referring to a related vegetable plant. Its leaves and young shoots offer a sweet and delicate flavor, once appreciated by local populations.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SpinachSpinacia oleracea
- Strawberry bliteBlitum capitatum
- SaltbushAtriplex halimus
- Fat-henChenopodium album
- Atriplex prostrataAtriplex prostrata
- BeetBeta vulgaris
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.