Spreading Pigweed
Amaranthus graecizans
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
CO
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Spreading pigweed is a low-growing annual wildflower that forms spreading mats of small, oval leaves. It produces tiny, inconspicuous greenish flowers from summer through early fall and tolerates drought conditions well.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spreading Pigweed 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.
- Commonly considered a weed by most homeowners
- Spreads aggressively and can look unkempt
- Name includes 'pigweed' which has negative associations
Wildlife value
This plant provides seeds for birds and small mammals in late summer and fall. The flowers offer pollen for small native bees and beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Spreading Pigweed need?
- Spreading Pigweed grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Spreading Pigweed bloom?
- Spreading Pigweed blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Spreading Pigweed native?
- Spreading Pigweed (Amaranthus graecizans) is native to CO, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Spreading Pigweed HOA-friendly?
- Spreading Pigweed 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 Spreading Pigweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz