The first study provides a comprehensive assessment of morphological diversity across a wide range of amaranth genetic resources, documenting variation in plant architecture, leaf shape, color, and growth habits. This characterization establishes a foundation for identifying distinct traits that can be leveraged in breeding and crop improvement programs.
The second study builds on this foundation by evaluating multiple Amaranthus species and accessions for their suitability in leafy green production. Researchers assessed key horticultural traits such as yield, growth rate, and harvestability, alongside nutritional attributes including mineral content and other health-promoting compounds.
Together, the findings highlight significant diversity within amaranth germplasm, revealing opportunities to select and develop varieties that combine strong field performance with enhanced nutritional profiles. Certain accessions demonstrated favorable traits for commercial production, including high biomass yield, uniform growth, and desirable leaf characteristics, while also delivering elevated levels of essential nutrients.
The research underscores the importance of integrating morphological data with performance and nutritional evaluations when selecting crops for modern production systems. This combined approach allows for more targeted selection of varieties that meet both grower needs and consumer demand for nutrient-dense foods.
Amaranth's resilience to diverse environmental conditions and its potential for rapid production cycles make it especially promising for sustainable agriculture, including use in regions facing climate variability or limited resources. Improved selection strategies based on these studies could support wider adoption of amaranth as a reliable and nutritious leafy green.
By aligning genetic diversity with practical production and nutritional goals, the research provides a roadmap for expanding the role of amaranth in global food systems and enhancing its value to growers and consumers alike.
James Simon is the Distinguished Professor of Plant Biology at Rutgers University and Director of the New Use Agriculture and Natural Plant Production Program (NUANPP).
Co-authors include Tori Rosen, Ph.D. Candidate in Plant Breeding and Genetics, Dr. Qingli Wu, Associate Research Professor and Science Director of the Rutgers Campus-Wide Core Facility for Natural Products & Bioanalysis, and Dr. Nebahat Sari, Senior Researcher.
The full articles can be read on the ASHS HortScience electronic Journal website at: https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI19186-25 and https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI19195-25
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.
Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community - scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.
