Powell's Amaranth
Amaranthus powellii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–60" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, NJ and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Powell's amaranth is a tall annual wildflower that produces dense, upright flower spikes in summer and fall. This native plant can reach up to 5 feet tall with a somewhat coarse, weedy appearance that fits better in naturalized areas than formal landscapes.
In an HOA neighborhood
Powell's Amaranth takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Tall and weedy appearance
- Can self-seed aggressively
- May be mistaken for unwanted weeds
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during the long blooming period from July through September. Seeds provide food for birds in fall and winter.
Common questions
- How much sun does Powell's Amaranth need?
- Powell's Amaranth grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Powell's Amaranth bloom?
- Powell's Amaranth blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Powell's Amaranth native?
- Powell's Amaranth (Amaranthus powellii) is native to AZ, CA, CO, NJ and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Powell's Amaranth attract?
- Powell's Amaranth draws bees and beetles.
- Is Powell's Amaranth HOA-friendly?
- Powell's Amaranth takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Powell's Amaranth? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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