Carelessweed
Amaranthus palmeri
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–72" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, NM, NV and 2 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Carelessweed is a tall annual plant that can grow up to 6 feet high with a somewhat coarse appearance. It produces small greenish flowers in dense clusters during summer and fall months. This plant is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Carelessweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Classified as a noxious weed
- Extremely weedy appearance
- Can become invasively large and unsightly
Wildlife value
The dense flower clusters provide seeds for birds, particularly goldfinches and other seed-eating species. The plant can serve as a host for some butterfly caterpillars.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Carelessweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.