Thorny Amaranth
Amaranthus spinosus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–48" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
NC
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Thorny amaranth is a fast-growing annual wildflower with upright stems and small greenish flower spikes that bloom through summer and fall. This native plant has spiny stems and can self-seed readily in disturbed soils. It thrives in hot, sunny conditions with moderate water needs.
In an HOA neighborhood
Thorny Amaranth 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.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Sharp spines pose safety hazard
- Extremely weedy appearance
- Self-seeds aggressively
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract bees and beetles for pollen and nectar. Seeds provide food for birds and small wildlife in fall.
Common questions
- How much sun does Thorny Amaranth need?
- Thorny Amaranth grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Thorny Amaranth bloom?
- Thorny Amaranth blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Thorny Amaranth native?
- Thorny Amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus) is native to NC, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Thorny Amaranth attract?
- Thorny Amaranth draws bees and beetles.
- Is Thorny Amaranth HOA-friendly?
- Thorny 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 Thorny Amaranth? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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