Cooked Chinese Multicolor Spinach Amaranth leaves in a bowl surrounded by leaves.
A gardener&
Farmer Frank smiles as he holds giant stalks of Chinese Multicolor Spinach Amaranth.
Chinese Multicolor Spinach Amaranth leaves growing in a greenhouse at Baker Creek.
Baker Creek&
Cooked Chinese Multicolor Spinach Amaranth leaves in a bowl surrounded by leaves.
A gardener&
Farmer Frank smiles as he holds giant stalks of Chinese Multicolor Spinach Amaranth.
Chinese Multicolor Spinach Amaranth leaves growing in a greenhouse at Baker Creek.
Baker Creek&

Amaranth Seeds,
Chinese Multicolor Spinach

4.455 ReviewsSKU: #AM105Min. seed count: 100
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Description

(Amaranthus tricolor). A heat- and drought-tolerant green in spectacular splashes of color! This leafy “spinach” amaranth is popular in Asia, eaten raw, stir fried, or steamed. It is known as bireum in Korea and as xian cai in China. Recent research has shown that amaranth in Asia is identical to that of amaranth in the Americas, and it has been proven to have existed in Asia for millennia. For some, the presence of amaranth in Asia is considered a living piece of evidence that pre-Columbian transatlantic trade indeed happened. This is by far the most tender and sweetest amaranth for edible greens, making for vibrant and delicious salad. The young leaves are a perfect spinach substitute; the intricately colored leaves are juicy and succulent. This is the go-to “green” for midsummer when all others have bolted, and can be harvested just 30 to 40 days from sowing.

Growing Tips: Chinese Multicolor Spinach amaranth is a warm-season green that likes hot, sunny conditions. This fast-growing, heat-tolerant plant prefers full sun exposure and well-drained, fertile soil. While it can tolerate poorer soil conditions, providing ample nutrients and maintaining consistent moisture will enhance its growth and yield. This variety of amaranth is drought-resistant to a degree but benefits from regular watering, especially during dry spells.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Amaranthus tricolor
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
3–10
Days to Maturity
30–40
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
6 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

The optimal time to plant Chinese Multicolor Spinach amaranth is in late spring to early summer, once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Ideal soil temperatures for germination range between 65 to 90°F. In regions with mild winters, amaranth can sometimes be planted as late as early fall. The plant grows vigorously during the warm months and can be harvested repeatedly throughout the growing season​. If you're not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.

How to Sow and Plant

Seeds should be surface sown and spaced approximately 6 inches apart to allow adequate room for growth. If using a container, select one that is at least 12 inches deep and wide, ensuring proper drainage. Covering the seeds with a fine layer of compost or soil helps retain moisture and supports germination.

How to Grow

Keep the soil consistently moist, as the plant does not tolerate drought well despite its heat tolerance. Applying mulch around the base of the plants can help conserve moisture, especially in hotter climates. When the plants reach 4 to 6 inches in height, pinching off the top rosettes of leaves can encourage bushier growth and more leaf production, which is beneficial for continuous harvest. Regular weeding is necessary to reduce competition for nutrients and water​.

How to Save Seeds

  • When plants have matured, cut down the entire flower stalk, place in a large bag and shake vigorously to remove seeds
  • Alternatively, place a colander on top of a bowl and massage the flower heads until the seeds drop. Winnow by gently shaking the seeds and blowing lightly on them to remove the plant pieces from the seeds
  • Amaranth is wind pollinated, so if you are saving seeds, different varieties should be planted 1,000 feet away from each other to prevent cross pollination. Also, keep away related plants such as celosia, cockscomb, lambsquarter and pigweed to avoid cross pollination

Note: Amaranth seeds remain viable 5 to 7 years after harvest

FAQ

Can Chinese Multicolor Spinach amaranth be grown in containers?

Yes, as long as they are sufficiently large and have good drainage. A container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide is recommended​.

How long does it take to harvest Chinese Multicolor Spinach amaranth?

Leaves are typically ready for harvest 30 to 40 days after planting.

Does Chinese Multicolor Spinach amaranth attract pests?

While generally pest-resistant, amaranth can occasionally be affected by caterpillars and stem borers. Keeping the area around the plants weed-free and using organic pest control methods can help manage these issues.

Shop our Chinese Multicolor Spinach amaranth seeds.

Customer reviews

4.4 / 5 55 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Loves the heat: Thrives through 100-degree summers when lettuce has quit.

  • Striking leaves: Red and green foliage pretty enough for the flower bed.

  • Mild spinach flavor: Tender, mild greens for salads, stir-fries and soup.

  • Keeps on giving: Snip leaves and it regrows for months.

  • Heads up: Reseeds freely; some report insects chewing the leaves.

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