grain plant leafy vegetable plant amaranth plant Amaranthus, collectively known as amaranth or pigweed, is a cosmopolitan genus of herbs. Approximately 60 species are presently recognised, with inflorescences and foliage ranging from purple and red to gold. Although several species are often considered weeds, people around the world value amaranths as leaf vegetables, cereals and ornamentals. . WIKIPEDIA:Amaranth amaranth (grain) amaranthus spp. pigweed requires discussion