Tropical Amaranth
Amaranthus polygonoides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
FL, NM, SC, TX
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Tropical amaranth is a low-growing annual forb that reaches 6-24 inches tall with a compact 4-12 inch spread. It thrives in full sun with minimal water requirements and blooms from June through September. This drought-tolerant plant produces small flowers during the summer months.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tropical Amaranth takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Annual growth habit creates gaps and bare spots
- Amaranth family often considered weedy by HOAs
- May self-seed unpredictably in landscape beds
Wildlife value
As an amaranth species, it likely provides seeds for birds and small wildlife. The summer blooms may attract some pollinators, though specific pollinator relationships are not well documented for this species.
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 Tropical Amaranth fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.