amaranth, pigweed

Description:

An Amaranthus sp. This reminds me of pigweed, Amaranthus palmeri. Amaranthus, collectively known as amaranth, is a cosmopolitan genus of annual or short-lived perennial plants. Catkin-like cymes of densely packed flowers are produced. Approximately 60 species are recognized, with inflorescences and foliage ranging from purple and red to green or gold. Although several species are often considered weeds, people around the world value amaranths as leaf vegetables, cereals, and ornamentals.

Habitat:

Observed growing in a fallow garden in the equatorial tropics of northern New Guinea.