More than 2200 species of the wild flora and fauna photographed in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico and the surrounding area.
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Flowers of Zihuatanejo
Amaranths
Amaranthus (Genus)
Flowers by Colour
-Vascular Plants (Phylum Tracheophyta)
-Flowering Plants (Subphylum Angiospermae)
-Pinks, Cactuses, and Allies (Order Caryophyllales)
-Amaranths (Family Amaranthaceae)
-Subfamily Amaranthoideae
-Amaranths (Genus Amaranthus)
Several species of amaranth have been used for food by Native Americans and pre-Columbian civilizations since prehistoric times. Aztecs and peoples of other cultures consumed both the leafy greens and the seeds, and they used the plants as medicinal herbs and as a source of ceremonial face and body paint.
Description
• Amaranthus is a genus of flowering plants commonly known as amaranths or pigweeds, belonging to the amaranth family (Amaranthaceae). Species include annual herbs with upright, often branching stems and simple, alternate leaves. Their small, inconspicuous flowers grow in dense clusters or elongated spikes, often green, reddish, or purple. Many species produce abundant, tiny seeds, and some have colourful foliage. Several species are cultivated for their edible leaves and seeds, while others grow readily as weeds.
Range
• Amaranthus species occur naturally across the Americas, with some species native to other continents. The genus is now widespread in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions worldwide. It is represented in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.
Habitat
• Amaranths commonly grow in sunny, open environments, including roadsides, agricultural fields, gardens, grasslands, disturbed ground, and forest clearings. Many species tolerate heat, drought, and nutrient-poor soils, while some prefer moist ground near streams or wetlands. They are particularly common in disturbed habitats where vegetation is frequently cleared or soil is exposed.