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.
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 Spreading Pigweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.