Amaranthus cruentus. Alegria. From a Nahua market in Tulyehualco outside Mexico City. Seed typically used for the traditional central Mexican confection, alegria, which is made with popped seeds and honey. The edible greens taste best before flowering. Green flowers, some with red tinge. Grows up to 9 ft. with multiple flower heads. From our Seed Bank Collection.
Origin: High Desert but performs well in low desert also
Saw this growing on its own and on the side of the road in Cornville Arizona with no irrigation. It grew to full maturity in size with no assistance. I have been thinking of growing it ever since.