Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
Discover the elegance of Amaranth Seeds - White Leaf, a stunning addition to your garden with its lush, pale foliage. This variety grows to a height of approximately 3 to 5 feet, providing a graceful backdrop in any planting scheme. Known for its rapid growth, the White Leaf amaranth matures in about 45 to 60 days, making it a quick yet rewarding choice for gardeners seeking both beauty and utility.
The White Leaf amaranth is celebrated for its tender leaves, which are a culinary delight. As they mature, the leaves retain a creamy white hue, perfect for adding visual interest to salads and soups. The mild, slightly nutty flavor complements a variety of dishes, offering versatility in the kitchen. Whether sautéed or used fresh, these leaves are a nutritious addition to your meals.
With a prolific yield, this amaranth variety ensures a steady supply throughout the growing season. Its resilience to heat and ability to thrive in a range of soil types make it a dependable choice for gardeners. Cultivate the White Leaf amaranth to enjoy both its ornamental beauty and its practical culinary applications, enriching your garden and your table.
How to Sow and Transplant Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.)
1. Sowing Seeds
Timing:
Sow amaranth seeds directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, or start indoors 4–6 weeks before your last frost date for earlier blooms or harvests. Soil must be warm—at least 60°F (16°C)—for reliable germination.
Soil Preparation:
Work compost or aged manure into the top 6–8 inches of soil before sowing. Amaranth thrives in well-drained loam or sandy loam with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Avoid heavy, wet soils.
Sowing Depth:
Seeds are tiny—sow only ⅛ inch deep or press gently into the soil surface and lightly cover with fine soil or vermiculite.
Spacing:
After germination, thin or transplant seedlings to:
10–12 inches apart for leafy types (A. tricolor)
12–18 inches apart for ornamental or grain types (A. caudatus and A. cruentus)
Space rows 18–30 inches apart depending on variety size.
Germination Conditions:
Keep soil evenly moist until seedlings emerge, usually within 5–10 days at 70–85°F (21–29°C). Avoid crusting or oversaturation, which can smother seedlings.
2. Transplanting Seedlings
Timing:
Transplant only after all frost danger has passed, when both soil and air are consistently warm. Young amaranth is sensitive to cold and will not recover from frost damage.
Handling:
Amaranth seedlings are delicate—transplant by the root ball, not by the stem. Water the soil before removing them from trays to reduce transplant shock.
Planting Depth:
Set plants at the same depth they grew in their pots. Do not bury stems. Gently firm the soil and water well after planting.
Hardening Off:
Before transplanting outdoors, harden off for 5–7 days by gradually introducing seedlings to direct sunlight and outdoor airflow. Begin with a few hours daily, increasing exposure over the week.
Initial Watering:
Water deeply after transplanting to settle roots. Keep soil evenly moist but not saturated during the first 7–10 days while plants reestablish.
3. Early Care After Transplanting
Temperature: Optimal range is 70–90°F (21–32°C); amaranth stops growing below 60°F (16°C).
Watering: Maintain consistent moisture until roots are established; afterward, water deeply once or twice per week.
Mulching: Apply a light layer of straw or shredded leaves around plants to retain moisture and reduce weed pressure.
How to Grow — White Leaf Amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor)
Seed Starting & Transplant Timing
Start indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost or direct sow outdoors once soil has warmed above 60°F (16°C). White Leaf thrives in warm, sunny conditions and matures quickly when given steady moisture and airflow.
Germination range: 70–80°F (21–27°C); emergence in 5–10 Days. Sow shallowly—press seeds gently into the surface or cover with no more than ⅛ inch of fine soil. Maintain constant light moisture until seedlings appear.
Lighting: Provide 14–16 hours/day of bright light under LEDs or fluorescents. Keep lights 2–3 inches above the canopy to prevent stretching.
First feed & pot-up: Begin ¼-strength organic feeding once the first true leaves develop. Pot up to 3–4 inch containers when roots fill their cells.
Harden off: Over 5–7 days, gradually acclimate seedlings to direct sunlight and outdoor airflow. Transplant when nighttime temperatures remain above 55°F (13°C).
Soil Preparation
Texture & pH: Loose, fertile loam or sandy loam with excellent drainage; ideal pH range 6.0–7.0. Avoid compacted or soggy soil.
Amendments: Mix in 2 inches of compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Add bone meal or kelp meal to strengthen stems and leaf pigmentation.
Bed setup: Raised beds and mounded rows improve drainage, soil warmth, and airflow—especially important in humid climates.
Watering
Provide about 1 inch of water weekly, adjusting for weather.
Best method: Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to keep foliage dry and roots consistently moist.
Tip: White Leaf prefers steady moisture—irregular watering can cause bitterness or tough leaves. Avoid both waterlogging and drought stress.
Fertilizing
Early growth: Feed every 2–3 weeks with balanced organic fertilizer (5-5-5) or compost tea to promote lush leaf production.
Mid to late season: Once plants reach full canopy, reduce nitrogen to maintain color intensity and prevent weak stems. Supplement with potassium for strong structure and disease resistance.
Note: Excessive nitrogen encourages pale, floppy growth and diminishes flavor.
Weeding & Mulching
Keep young plants weed-free to prevent competition for moisture and nutrients.
Mulch: Apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch (straw, shredded leaves, or compost) after soil warms. This stabilizes moisture and suppresses weeds.
Weeding care: Hand-pull or lightly hoe to avoid disturbing shallow roots.
Sun & Heat Management
Full sun (6–8+ hours daily) is essential for vigorous growth and strong pigmentation.
Temperature range: Prefers 75–95°F (24–35°C). Prolonged cool weather slows growth, while extreme heat (>100°F / 38°C) can cause leaf curl.
Heat management: In scorching conditions, provide light afternoon shade and mulch heavily to keep roots cool.
Spacing & Support
Space plants 8–12 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart for leafy harvests. Wider spacing (12–18 inches) supports stronger stems and better air circulation.
Support: White Leaf typically reaches 2–3 feet tall and is self-supporting, though plants may benefit from staking in windy locations.
Companion Planting
Good companions: Basil, chives, garlic, and marigold—all deter aphids and flea beetles while attracting pollinators.
Avoid: Shady, dense crops such as corn or tomatoes that can block sunlight.
Pollinator note: The small, clustered blooms attract bees, hoverflies, and other beneficial insects that enhance garden diversity.
Container Growing
Use 8–10 gallon containers with rich, well-draining potting mix. Ensure 12 inches of soil depth for healthy roots.
Watering: Containers dry quickly in heat—check daily and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Tip: Fabric or clay pots help prevent overheating and maintain even moisture levels.
Pruning & Training
Harvest or pinch the top 3–4 inches of growth once plants reach 10–12 inches tall. This promotes branching and higher leaf yields.
Maintenance: Remove any yellowing lower leaves to improve airflow and discourage pests. Avoid over-pruning, as excessive cutting reduces regrowth speed.
Season Extension
White Leaf is frost-sensitive. Protect plants with row covers if early or late frosts threaten.
Late season: Before frost, harvest remaining leaves or mature seed heads. Dry seed heads indoors for 10–14 days before threshing.
Harvest & Seed Saving
Harvest: Pick tender leaves throughout the season, preferably before flowering for best flavor. Mature seed heads can be harvested once dry and tan.
Cut, don’t pull: Use scissors or shears to minimize root disturbance and encourage regrowth.
Seed saving: Hang mature flower heads in a shaded, airy space for 10–14 days. Thresh and winnow clean.
Isolation: Maintain at least 500 feet from other A. tricolor varieties to preserve White Leaf’s color purity.
Additional Tips — White Leaf Amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor)
Harvesting
Stage options: Harvest tender leaves 30–45 Days after sowing for fresh greens, or allow 90–100 Days for full maturity and seed production. The pale leaves remain delicate longest when picked before flowering begins.
Cut cleanly: Use sharp scissors or shears to remove outer leaves or young shoots. Avoid pulling, which can disturb shallow roots and reduce regrowth.
Production rhythm: Harvest regularly to encourage continuous new growth. Cutting the upper third of the plant promotes branching and doubles harvest volume over the season.
Drying prep: For seed harvest, let flower heads mature and turn tan. Hang upside down in a dry, shaded, well-ventilated area for 10–14 days before threshing.
Flavor & Nutrition
Profile: Mild and tender, with a faintly nutty, grassy flavor reminiscent of spinach but slightly sweeter. Older leaves may develop a stronger, earthier tone when cooked.
Nutrition: Extremely rich in calcium, iron, potassium, and vitamins A and C. High in antioxidants and essential amino acids, including lysine.
Flavor balance: Works well with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and light oils. The mild taste complements spicy or tangy dishes and pairs naturally with Asian flavors.
Handling
Harvest timing: Pick leaves in the cool morning hours to preserve crispness and prevent wilting.
Processing seeds: Once dry, gently rub flower heads between your hands or over a screen to collect seeds. Winnow to remove chaff before storage.
Gloves optional: Not necessary, as stems and leaves are smooth and non-irritating.
Storage & Preservation
Fresh leaves: Refrigerate unwashed in a ventilated bag for up to 5–7 days. Wash gently before cooking.
Drying leaves: Dehydrate at 110–115°F (43–46°C) until brittle, then crumble into soups or teas for a mineral-rich addition.
Seeds: Store completely dry in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Viable and edible for up to 4–5 years.
Dried leaves: Crumbled, dried greens can be blended into green powder for nutrient-dense smoothies or broth mixes.
Kitchen Use
Cooking greens: Stir-fry quickly with garlic and sesame oil, or steam lightly for soups and side dishes.
Grain use: Seeds can be cooked or ground into flour to add protein to bread or porridge.
Decorative use: The pale leaves contrast beautifully with red or green varieties in edible displays and mixed plantings.
Pairings: Excellent with tofu, ginger, sesame, mushrooms, and citrus dressings.
Growing & Pruning Tips
Regional adaptation: Performs best in warm climates with high humidity tolerance. Well-suited for subtropical and tropical conditions but adaptable to temperate gardens during summer.
Support: Plants rarely require staking, but heavy rain can cause lodging in overly rich soil—mulching helps stabilize stems.
Airflow: Space 8–12 inches apart for vigorous growth and airflow to prevent fungal issues.
Fertility: Moderate compost feeding is sufficient; excessive nitrogen results in overly lush foliage and weak stems.
Containers & Watering
Pot size: 8–10 gallon containers are ideal for compact growth and easy harvesting.
Water needs: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Avoid cycles of drought and flooding, which can stress plants and cause leaf bitterness.
Mulch: Apply 2 inches of organic mulch to retain moisture and reduce weed competition.
Companion Planting & Pollinators
Allies: Pairs well with basil, chives, and garlic—all help deter aphids and flea beetles.
Pollinator support: The small, clustered flowers attract bees and beneficial insects.
Avoid: Planting directly beside shade-loving crops such as lettuce; White Leaf prefers full sunlight for color and vigor.
Seed Saving
True-to-type: Select strong plants with uniform white-green foliage and consistent growth habit for seed saving.
Isolation: Maintain at least 500 feet between different A. tricolor varieties to ensure purity.
Dry thoroughly: Allow seed heads to mature completely before cutting and drying.
Storage: Store seeds in airtight jars in a cool, dark space. Viable for 4–5 years under proper conditions.
Common Pests & Problems — White Leaf Amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor)
Insects & Mites
Aphids (sticky honeydew, curled leaves, stunted new growth)
Controls: Rinse colonies from leaves and stems using a firm water spray. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days until clear. Remove nearby weeds and control ant populations that tend aphids. Interplant with dill or sweet alyssum to attract lacewings and lady beetles.
Flea beetles (tiny round shot-holes in leaves, especially on seedlings)
Controls: Cover young plants with lightweight row cover until they are well established. Use trap crops like mustard or radish to divert beetles. Dust soil around stems with diatomaceous earth. Keep surrounding soil weed-free.
Spider mites (fine webbing and speckled or bronzed leaves in dry conditions)
Controls: Increase humidity by watering paths and mulching heavily. Hose leaf undersides weekly. Alternate horticultural and neem oils for control. Introduce predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis) in enclosed gardens.
Leaf miners (white serpentine tunnels in leaves)
Controls: Remove and destroy infested leaves. Attract parasitic wasps by growing calendula, yarrow, and cosmos nearby. Avoid broad-spectrum insecticides.
Thrips (twisted leaf tips, silver streaking, reduced growth)
Controls: Monitor with blue sticky traps. Remove weeds and grass near plantings. Spray spinosad or insecticidal soap at labeled rates. Avoid mowing flowering weeds during peak infestation periods.
Caterpillars / Armyworms (holes in leaves, ragged edges, droppings visible on foliage)
Controls: Handpick larvae daily, especially early morning or dusk. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Bt) to young caterpillars. Mow or clear nearby vegetation that shelters moths.
Cutworms (seedlings cut at the base overnight)
Controls: Place cardboard collars or paper rings around young stems. Clear crop residue, mulch, and grass near planting areas. Scout at night to remove cutworms manually.
Diseases
Leaf spot (Alternaria / Cercospora) (brown or purple-ringed lesions, premature leaf drop)
Prevention: Rotate crops every 3–4 years, avoid overhead watering, and maintain good airflow.
Management: Remove infected foliage promptly. Apply neem oil or copper fungicide preventively in humid conditions.
Downy mildew (yellow patches on upper leaves, gray mold beneath)
Prevention: Space plants generously and water at soil level early in the morning.
Management: Remove affected leaves; apply copper or biological fungicide sprays during prolonged humidity.
Powdery mildew (white powdery film on upper leaves, reduced vigor)
Prevention: Avoid nitrogen excess, maintain airflow, and ensure sunlight reaches lower leaves.
Management: Remove heavily infected leaves. Use sulfur or potassium bicarbonate sprays for early control.
Root rot / damping-off (young seedlings collapse at soil line, darkened stems)
Prevention: Plant in well-drained soil; avoid overwatering and cold, wet conditions.
Management: Start seedlings in sterile media and dispose of affected plants.
Rust (orange or brown pustules beneath leaves)
Prevention: Avoid splashing water on leaves and rotate away from Amaranthus for 3 years.
Management: Remove infected foliage and apply neem or copper-based treatments preventively.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Nutrient deficiency (pale or yellow leaves, slow growth)
Fix: Feed lightly with balanced fertilizer or top-dress with compost. Avoid overfeeding with nitrogen.
Heat stress (temporary midday wilting, scorched leaf edges)
Fix: Mulch deeply to conserve soil moisture. Provide light afternoon shade in extreme heat.
Water stress / edema (rough or corky leaf patches, blistering)
Fix: Maintain steady soil moisture; avoid alternating drought and flooding.
Sunscald (bleached areas on upper leaves under intense sun)
Fix: Maintain canopy cover; avoid removing too many lower leaves during harvest.
Lodging (stem bending or toppling)
Cause: Overwatering, overfertilization, or wind damage.
Fix: Water deeply but infrequently, reduce feeding, and stake plants in windy gardens.
Monitoring & Prevention Checklist
Inspect leaves twice weekly for aphids, mites, and miners.
Water at soil level in early morning hours.
Maintain spacing (6–12 inches) for airflow and easy harvest.
Mulch to conserve moisture and prevent soil splash.
Rotate Amaranthus crops every 3 years to disrupt pest and disease cycles.
Sanitize tools and remove infected foliage promptly.
Encourage beneficial insects by planting nectar-rich flowers nearby.
Keep fertility balanced and watering consistent for healthy, pest-resistant plants.
White Leaf Amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor) — FAQs
Q: How tall does White Leaf Amaranth grow?
Usually 2–4 feet tall with upright, tender stems and broad, pale green to creamy white leaves. In fertile soil and warm climates, plants may reach up to 5 feet.
Q: How long does it take to mature?
Approximately 50–60 Days for harvestable greens, or 90–100 Days if grown to full seed maturity. Successive sowings extend the harvest throughout summer.
Q: How long does germination take?
5–10 Days at 70–85°F. Seeds sprout best in light, warm soil with consistent moisture.
Q: What soil type is ideal?
Compost-rich, well-drained loam. This variety thrives in fertile soils but tolerates a range of textures as long as drainage is good.
Q: How much sunlight does it need?
Full sun is best, though it tolerates light partial shade in hot climates. Sun exposure deepens the pale green color and improves leaf density.
Q: How should I space the plants?
6–10 inches apart for leaf harvest or 12–18 inches apart if growing to full maturity for seed. Allow 18–24 inches between rows for airflow.
Q: Is it edible?
Yes. This is primarily a leafy vegetable amaranth. The tender leaves and shoots are rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and protein.
Q: Can it be grown in containers?
Yes, easily. Choose pots at least 10 inches deep and wide, with rich, well-draining soil. Keep evenly watered for continual leaf growth.
Q: How do I harvest it?
Begin picking young leaves once plants reach 6–8 inches tall. Regular harvesting encourages new growth. For seed, allow flower heads to dry and turn golden before cutting.
Q: How do I save seed for next year?
Select healthy, mature plants and let them flower naturally. When seed heads dry, collect, clean, and store them in airtight jars in a cool, dark place. Viability lasts up to 4 years.
Q: Does it attract pollinators or insects?
Yes. Its tiny flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects, and it supports soil biodiversity with its deep, fibrous roots.
Q: Is it drought-tolerant?
Moderately. It prefers consistent watering, but established plants withstand dry spells well if soil is rich and mulched.
Q: Is it native to the United States?
No. While descended from ancient American amaranths, White Leaf was developed through centuries of Asian cultivation, especially in China and India.
Q: Can I grow it year-round?
In warm climates, yes. It thrives in summer heat. In cooler regions, grow from late spring to early autumn.
Q: What causes yellowing or wilting leaves?
Overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure soil dries slightly between waterings and maintain steady warmth.
Q: Can I use it in cooking?
Yes. Stir-fry with garlic, add to soups, or steam as a tender spinach substitute. It holds texture and color better than most leafy greens.
Q: Does it reseed itself?
Sometimes. Collect seeds if you wish to avoid volunteers, though self-sown seedlings are easy to identify and transplant.
Q: What is its historical significance?
White Leaf Amaranth reflects the global legacy of Amaranthus tricolor, carried from Indigenous American fields to Asian gardens centuries ago. Its pale foliage and soft texture result from generations of careful selection by small farmers across China and India.
Q: Can it cross with other amaranths?
Yes, with other A. tricolor types. If saving seed, isolate by at least 500 feet to maintain purity.
White Leaf Amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor) tells a story not just of one continent, but of the world’s deep agricultural interconnection—a lineage that began in the sacred fields of the Americas and found rebirth across the seas in Asia’s fertile plains. Long before it was known by this name, its ancestors grew wild and cultivated in the tropical lowlands of Central and South America, where Indigenous peoples regarded amaranth as one of the Earth’s first sacred grains. It was sustenance, medicine, and spirit all in one, forming the fourth sister beside maize, beans, and squash in certain regions of ancient cultivation.
When the Spanish empire reached the New World in the 16th century, it carried away not only gold and silver but also seeds—some openly traded, others taken as curiosities. Among these were the brightly pigmented species of Amaranthus, prized for their vigor, beauty, and nutritional value. Though the Spanish outlawed amaranth in their American colonies to suppress Indigenous ceremony, the seed nonetheless made its way into the holds of merchant ships bound for Africa and Asia.
It was in Asia—particularly in India, China, and Southeast Asia—that Amaranthus tricolor found a second home. The plant’s tolerance to heat, humidity, and monsoon conditions made it an instant success among small farmers and village gardeners. Over centuries, countless local strains arose, each shaped by soil, culture, and cuisine. In India it became known as chaulai; in Thailand, as phak khom; in China, as yin choi—“inverted vegetable,” for its red-and-green leaves that seemed painted by nature.
White Leaf Amaranth likely emerged from these centuries of selection, bred for tenderness, pale foliage, and a mild, spinach-like flavor. Its lighter color, unusual among the deep greens and reds of its relatives, was prized in Chinese horticulture for its cooling energy in the body—a reflection of the ancient balance between yin and yang. Farmers grew it in summer months when other leafy vegetables failed, relying on its resilience and abundant yields.
Through trade networks and migration, this Asian domesticate returned to the West by the 18th and 19th centuries, entering European seed collections as an “exotic vegetable” and later appearing in American seed catalogs. But its soul remained unchanged: the humble, nourishing plant that crossed oceans yet never forgot its origin in the hands of Indigenous farmers.
Today, White Leaf Amaranth represents the living continuity of global cultivation. Its pale leaves shimmer in sunlight like silk, recalling a journey that began thousands of years ago in the sacred terraces of the Americas and continued through the rice paddies and village plots of Asia. To grow it is to honor both hemispheres—the ancient stewards who first recognized amaranth’s divinity and the generations of farmers who carried that legacy forward in soil, seed, and spirit.
Choose vigorous, healthy plants that display the best color, growth habit, and seed head form for the variety. Avoid saving from plants that lodge (fall over), show disease, or produce weak seed heads. For leafy types, select those with tender, flavorful leaves and strong regrowth.
Mark ideal plants early in the season using colored ties. Let them mature fully to ensure the seeds reach full physiological ripeness. Save seed from at least 6–10 plants per variety to maintain strong genetic diversity and avoid inbreeding.
Amaranth is open-pollinated and wind/insect pollinated, so maintain 500 feet (150 m) isolation distance between varieties of the same species (A. caudatus, A. cruentus, or A. tricolor) to prevent cross-pollination.
2. Harvesting Seeds
Allow flower heads (plumes or spikes) to mature until they dry naturally on the plant and seeds begin to fall freely when rubbed. The bracts should turn dry and papery, and seed color will darken to its mature shade (black, tan, or cream depending on the variety).
Cut entire seed heads on a dry morning, before shattering begins. Place in paper bags or on tarps in a shaded, ventilated area to finish curing for 7–10 days. Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and promote mold.
3. Threshing & Cleaning
Once the seed heads are crisp-dry, gently rub them between your hands or against a fine mesh screen to separate the seeds from chaff. For large harvests, place dried plumes in a clean tub and tread lightly or roll with a dowel to release seeds.
Winnow using a fan or steady breeze—pour seed and chaff between two containers, letting the lighter debris blow away. Repeat several times until seeds are clean and glossy.
Optional natural sanitization methods:
Hydrogen peroxide rinse: 3% solution for 3 minutes, then rinse and dry.
Apple cider vinegar solution: 1:10 ratio for 1 minute, followed by thorough rinsing.
Chamomile tea rinse: As a mild antifungal option before drying.
4. Drying Seeds
Spread cleaned seeds in a thin layer on parchment or mesh in a warm, shaded, and airy location (below 95°F / 35°C). Stir daily for even drying. Seeds are ready for storage when hard and brittle, typically after 5–10 days depending on humidity.
Avoid direct sunlight or oven drying, which can damage seed embryos. In humid climates, use a small fan or dehydrator on the lowest setting (around 85°F / 29°C).
5. Storing Seeds
For long-term viability:
Store fully dried seeds in airtight glass jars or paper envelopes sealed inside larger containers.
Label each with variety, species, and year saved.
Add a natural desiccant (silica gel or baked rice) to absorb moisture.
Keep in a cool, dark, and dry location—ideal temperature 35–45°F (1–7°C).
Amaranth seeds can remain viable for 4–6 years, sometimes longer when kept refrigerated with low humidity.
6. Testing Seed Viability
To test germination before replanting:
Place 10 seeds on a damp, non-chlorinated paper towel.
Fold and seal inside a plastic bag or lidded container.
Keep warm (75–80°F / 24–27°C) for 4–6 days.
Count sprouted seeds:
8–10 = Excellent viability
6–7 = Acceptable
Below 6 = Reseed to refresh stock
7. Preventing Cross-Pollination
Because amaranth is largely wind and insect pollinated, maintain isolation between varieties of the same species. If space is limited, you can:
Bag individual inflorescences with fine mesh before they release pollen.
Stagger planting times by 2–3 weeks to reduce overlap in flowering.
Grow one species per year in confined gardens to maintain varietal purity.
8. Record Keeping
Keep detailed notes on:
Parent plant traits (height, leaf color, seed head form)
Harvest dates
Cleaning and drying duration
Storage method and location
Germination test results
Add observations on growth vigor, drought tolerance, and pest resistance. Over time, this builds a record of local adaptation and performance—an invaluable asset for regional seed stewardship.
9. Organic Tips for Success
Always use non-chlorinated water in rinsing or viability tests.
Compost leftover plant debris to return nutrients to the soil.
Rotate planting locations yearly to prevent disease buildup.
Encourage native bees and pollinators—they improve yield and genetic health.
Avoid synthetic fungicides or chemical seed coatings.
Renew your seed line every few years to maintain vigor and local adaptation.
Uses and Benefits — White Leaf Amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor)
Culinary Uses
White Leaf Amaranth is a highly prized leafy variety cultivated across East and Southeast Asia for centuries. Its tender, pale-green leaves are mild, delicate, and packed with nutrients—often compared to young spinach but with a smoother texture and nuttier undertone. The leaves can be stir-fried, steamed, or added to soups and curries, and they retain their tenderness even under high heat.
General Preparation Methods
Leafy Greens:
Harvest when the plant is 6–12 inches tall for the most tender leaves. Quickly stir-fry with garlic and sesame oil, or steam and season lightly with soy sauce or vinegar for a traditional Asian side dish.
Soups & Stews:
Add chopped leaves near the end of cooking to preserve their light color and delicate texture. They complement miso, dashi, lentil, and clear vegetable broths beautifully.
Rice & Noodle Dishes:
Sauté or blanch leaves and fold into fried rice, ramen, or noodle salads for mild flavor and gentle green color contrast.
Nutritional Benefits
This variety of amaranth is particularly rich in micronutrients and easily digestible greens. Its light color signifies high moisture and tenderness while retaining substantial mineral content.
Vitamins: Excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and folate.
Minerals: Contains high levels of calcium, potassium, and iron.
Protein: Provides all essential amino acids in small but balanced proportions.
Fiber: Supports digestion and balanced metabolism.
Antioxidants: Rich in phenolic compounds that promote cellular protection and reduce inflammation.
Cultural and Practical Benefits
White Leaf Amaranth has been cultivated in Asia for over 2,000 years as a summer green, particularly valued for its resilience in hot, humid climates where other greens bolt or wilt. It represents a vital component of traditional diets and sustainable agriculture systems.
Cultural Staple: Common in Chinese, Korean, and Japanese cuisines as “yin choi” or “hinn choy.”
Seed Sovereignty: Open-pollinated and dependable for small-scale seed saving.
Resilience: Tolerates heat, humidity, and short dry spells, maintaining tenderness throughout.
Culinary Heritage: A cornerstone leafy green in subtropical and tropical cooking traditions.
Everyday Benefits and Garden Value
White Leaf is ideal for home gardeners seeking a productive, fast-growing, and forgiving leafy crop. It thrives in containers, raised beds, or garden rows, continuously producing harvestable leaves through summer’s peak heat.
Quick Maturity: Ready for first harvest within 30–40 days.
Heat Adaptation: Excels where lettuce or spinach fail.
Continuous Harvest: Regrows after cutting for multiple yields.
Compact Growth: Suitable for small gardens or urban setups.
Environmental and Garden Benefits
Pollinator Support: Small flowers attract beneficial insects and natural predators of pests.
Soil Improvement: Adds organic matter when crop residue is turned under.
Biodiversity: Maintains ancient Asian leafy amaranth lines within global seed networks.
Sustainability: Requires minimal water and fertilizer inputs while providing high nutrient returns.
Shipped from U.S.A.
Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
Triple tested
We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!
Payment & Security
Payment methods
Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.
Join Our Newsletter for Exclusive Savings!
Sign up for our newsletter to get a 30% discount code sent straight to your inbox. If it doesn’t appear right away, please check your inbox settings, and if you still need help, we’re here to assist!
Alliance of Native Seedkeepers
Amaranth Seeds - White Leaf
$200 USD
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
Discover the elegance of Amaranth Seeds - White Leaf, a stunning addition to your garden with its lush, pale foliage. This variety grows to a height of approximately 3 to 5 feet, providing a graceful backdrop in any planting scheme. Known for its rapid growth, the White Leaf amaranth matures in about 45 to 60 days, making it a quick yet rewarding choice for gardeners seeking both beauty and utility.
The White Leaf amaranth is celebrated for its tender leaves, which are a culinary delight. As they mature, the leaves retain a creamy white hue, perfect for adding visual interest to salads and soups. The mild, slightly nutty flavor complements a variety of dishes, offering versatility in the kitchen. Whether sautéed or used fresh, these leaves are a nutritious addition to your meals.
With a prolific yield, this amaranth variety ensures a steady supply throughout the growing season. Its resilience to heat and ability to thrive in a range of soil types make it a dependable choice for gardeners. Cultivate the White Leaf amaranth to enjoy both its ornamental beauty and its practical culinary applications, enriching your garden and your table.
