Mayo Indian amaranth

Amaranthus cruentus. Huge burgundy flower spikes loaded with striking shiny black seeds. Originally from Sonora, Mexico, it was used as a grain and to make pinole and atole. Prolific production of seeds (pseudo grain) can be shaken from flower plumes when mature, and plants can be left in the garden to feed birds all through autumn with the seeds that remain. Young leaves are nutrient dense and can be eaten like spinach. Self seeds easily. 90 days.