SEED Amaranthus tricolor -Chinese Spinach, Yin Choy, Thotakura Asian Greens - **Description**: Amaranthus tricolor is a vibrant leafy plant prized for its colorful foliage, which ranges from green to shades of red, yellow, and orange. It is both an ornamental plant and a nutritious edible green. This variety has large, fleshy, pale-green or burgundy and green leaves that can be enjoyed raw in salads - **Height**: Typically grows to 1-4 feet (30-120 cm), depending on the variety and growing conditions. - **Latin Name**: *Amaranthus tricolor* - **Days to Harvest**: Leaves can be harvested as early as 30-40 days after sowing for young greens, or 60-80 days for mature plants. ### How/Where to Grow: - **Climate**: Prefers warm weather and is highly heat-tolerant. It thrives in USDA zones 2-11 during the summer months. - **Soil**: Requires well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. - **Sunlight**: Full sun to partial shade. - **Watering**: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. - **Spacing**: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper growth and airflow. ### Starting from Seed: 1. **Sowing Indoors**: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Sow them OE inch deep in seed-starting mix. 2. **Direct Sowing**: In warmer climates, seeds can be sown directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. 3. **Germination**: Seeds germinate in 5-10 days at temperatures of 70-85F (21-29C). 4. **Transplanting**: Transplant seedlings outdoors once they have 2-3 true leaves and the soil is consistently warm. ### Benefits: - **Nutritional Value**: Leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and antioxidants. - **Eco-Friendly**: Amaranth is a fast-growing crop that requires minimal resources, making it a sustainable food option. ### History: - Native to Southeast Asia, Amaranthus tricolor has been cultivated for centuries as a dual-purpose crop for food and decoration. It is widely grown in China, India, and other tropical regions for its tender leaves and stems. ### Interesting Facts: - Known as "yin choy" in Chinese and "thotakura" in India, it is a staple green in many Asian cuisines. - The vivid coloration of its leaves makes it a popular choice in edible landscaping. - Amaranth is a pseudo-cereal, and its seeds can also be harvested for grain. ### Uses: - **Culinary**: - The tender leaves and stems are cooked like spinach and used in stir-fries, soups, and salads. - Seeds can be ground into flour or popped like popcorn. - **Ornamental**: Its striking foliage makes it a favorite for flower beds and borders. - **Cultural**: Used in traditional ceremonies and as a dye in some cultures. =s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s==s=s=s=s=s=s=s= Seed Shipping: Flat Rate Low Shipping fee- no matter how many seeds you order! Add this item to your cart and keep shopping-- at https://www.ebay.ca/usr/okiger-2i55iwk =s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s==s=s=s=s=s=s=s= Shipping of Seeds and Cuttings: Orders are shipped via Canada Post Mail unless otherwise specified. Some items are shipped without tracking to keep costs low. This is the most economical option. Canada Post is incredibly reliable, but can be slow. If you require tracking or a faster delivery please message before ordering. We try to ship any live plants on MONDAYS or TUESDAYS as a precautionary measure to avoid delays over the weekend and ensure the viability of live plant orders. Weather may be a contributing factor in the processing of our orders and will occasionally cause some delay. We will ship seeds anywhere in the world, however, please make sure you check with your country's customs office to be sure that they are allowed in. We will not be held responsible for orders held, confiscated and/or destroyed by customs. Please note this and make sure you understand before you buy it. If you have a question or if you are unclear about shipping policies please contact us. We welcome questions! Contact us before, after, or during any transaction and you will receive a reply ASAP. Thanks for visiting! Don't forget to bookmark us!