Common names: Red Garnet Amaranth

Scientific name: Amaranthus cruentus

Very fine texture with just the slightest crisp along with subtle notes of earth grass makes amaranth an easily compatible yet striking raw garnish for any dish. But appearance is not all there is. This nutritional powerhouse has ample amounts of Vitamin A, C and the highest microgreen concentration of Vitamin K - enough to largely satisfy daily needs even in very small quantities. They also contain high levels of manganese, folate, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and other minerals. Deriving from Greek for “unfading flower,”  amaranth is a collective name for any species of the genus Amaranthus native to the Americas. Many Native American cultures, particularly the Aztecs, cultivated the seeds as a pseudocereal staple which is now included in modern day “Ancient Grains” mixes. These cultures also ate Amaranth leaves and used other parts for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. With many species often used as a garden ornamental in modern times when fully grown, this beautiful crimson colored stem and pastel green leafed microgreen adds a boldly delicate aesthetic as mystical as its ancient roots.