Amaranthus hypochondriacus aka Prince's Feather

Amaranthus hypochondriacus, or prince's feather, belongs to the amaranth family. Its native range runs from the central United States to Mexico. It grows in a climate with a dry season. Gardeners grow it for its flowers, leaves, and seeds. It also grows wild on waste ground and farm land. Most plants live for one year. Some may live as short-lived perennials.

The plant grows upright and forms clumps with several stems. One reference gives a garden height of about 4 feet [1.2 metres]. Its broader height range is 1.3–6.6 feet [0.4–2 metres]. Rare plants reach 8.2 feet [2.5 metres]. Growth runs at a moderate pace. The stems may be green or reddish purple. They branch most near the flower heads and lack scent. Green leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Each leaf has one blade with smooth edges and no hairs. Leaf shapes range from egg-shaped to diamond-shaped or broad lance-shaped.

Dense flower spikes appear in summer and last into autumn. Most sit at stem tips, with some near upper leaves. The spikes may stand upright or hang down. Their small flowers form a bold, feather-like display. Colours include dark red, burgundy, and purple. Some plants have yellow or green flower heads. Each plant bears separate male and female flowers. Wind carries pollen, and the plant can also pollinate itself. The tiny, smooth seeds ripen for harvest in autumn. They may be pale, pinkish white, black, or dark brown.

Grow this plant in full sun and rich, moist soil. Good drainage matters, but clay, loam, and sand can suit it. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. A warm, sheltered site helps it grow well. NC State lists USDA zones 3–10 for growing it. This does not mean it survives winter in those zones. Useful Tropical Plants reports that temperatures at 39°F can kill it. Late seed maturity can limit its use in northern gardens.

Use it in borders, cottage gardens, or near paths and patios. Its flower heads suit fresh and dried arrangements. It draws butterflies and beetles, but aphids may attack it. Cook young leaves as greens; their taste is mild. Eat seeds raw, cooked, or popped, or use them as grain. Avoid eating plants grown with chemical fertilisers because leaves can collect nitrates. ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses.