Amaranthus hybridus
Mchicha / Terere
ID Number
AIV-2026-45A
Family
Amaranthaceae
Order
Caryophyllales
Biological Description
Amaranthus hybridus, commonly known as green amaranth or slim amaranth, is a widespread species of flowering plant. It is widely cultivated as a leaf vegetable across Sub-Saharan Africa due to its high nutritional value, containing significant amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Distribution & Habitat
Found throughout East Africa, particularly in fertile, well-drained soils near agricultural settlements.
Uses & Importance
The leaves and young stems are eaten boiled or in stews. In some cultures, the seeds are harvested and used as a pseudocereal. It is also used traditionally to treat anemia due to its high iron content.
Visual Records
Lab Photo Unavailable
Collected On
15 Jan 2026
Collected By
Dr. K. Mburu
Department
Botany Department
Storage Location
Not Evaluated (Common)
This status indicates the current research priority level within our institutional bioresources framework.