Flora canaria > Especies silvestres
Amaranthus caudatus
Amaranthus caudatus L.
Familia
AMARANTHACEAE
Cresta de gallo, Rabo de gato, Rabo de mono
Amaranthus caudatus, commonly known as kiwicha (in the Andes), amaranth or moco de pavo, is an annual plant of the Amaranthaceae family native to the Andean region of South America. It is notable both for its high nutritional value (its seeds are considered a superfood) and for its ornamental use, due to its striking red or purple inflorescences that hang in dense clusters.
It produces hanging flower spikes that can measure up to 90 cm in length, composed of thousands of small, intensely coloured flowers (amaranth, earthy red or pink).
Its seeds are rich in high-quality protein, essential amino acids such as lysine, calcium, iron and phosphorus. They are consumed in a similar way to quinoa or as puffed cereals.
As a plant native to high-altitude areas, it tolerates direct sunlight and water scarcity well once established.
In addition to the consumption of its grain and tender leaves, it is widely cultivated for landscaping and floral design (both fresh and dried).
Tenerife, Gran Canaria
Cresta de gallo, Rabo de gato, Rabo de mono
Amaranthus caudatus, commonly known as kiwicha (in the Andes), amaranth or moco de pavo, is an annual plant of the Amaranthaceae family native to the Andean region of South America. It is notable both for its high nutritional value (its seeds are considered a superfood) and for its ornamental use, due to its striking red or purple inflorescences that hang in dense clusters.
It produces hanging flower spikes that can measure up to 90 cm in length, composed of thousands of small, intensely coloured flowers (amaranth, earthy red or pink).
Its seeds are rich in high-quality protein, essential amino acids such as lysine, calcium, iron and phosphorus. They are consumed in a similar way to quinoa or as puffed cereals.
As a plant native to high-altitude areas, it tolerates direct sunlight and water scarcity well once established.
In addition to the consumption of its grain and tender leaves, it is widely cultivated for landscaping and floral design (both fresh and dried).
Tenerife, Gran Canaria
