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SEASONAL IDENTIFICATION
PALMER AMARANTH (Amaranthus palmeri)
SUMMER
LATE
SUMMER
FALL
MIDSUMMER
-
LATE
SUMMER
LATE
SUMMER
FALL
-
WINTER
As an early seedling, Palmer amaranth has a long leaf stalk,
leaves with smooth margins, and an evenly-spaced leaf
arrangement.
Palmer amaranth is usually taller than soybeans. Long,
green flower spikes become the defining characteristic in
late summer. Flowers resemble pipe cleaners.
Female flowers turn brown in fall and are armed with
sharp spines. Dark, round seeds remain in the flower until
disturbed. Be cautious not to distribute seeds to new
locations.
When you fold the leaf stalk back, it is longer than the length
of the leaf. The stem of the plant is smooth and hairless.
The flowers grow densely on the multiple flowering spikes
throughout the plant. The longest/largest spike typically
grows from the top. Only female flowers produce seeds.
Palmer amaranth turns entirely brown in fall and usually
retains its form. Stems and flowers stay intact, but leaves
will drop.
