Amaranthus hybridus

Erect annual to 1 (rarely to c. 2) m high. Stems grooved, sparsely pubescent, at least on younger parts. Leaves long-petiolate, ovate to rhombic, lamina 1.5–10 cm long, 1–6 cm wide, entire. Inflorescence a panicle of many spikes to c. 5 cm long and 5–8 mm diam. Flowers unisexual; longest bracts and bracteoles, 2.5–3.5 mm long, broad and membranous at base, acuminate, spinescent; tepals 5, c. oblong, 1.5–2 mm long, acute; stamens 5. Utricle circumsciss, subequal to or slightly exceeding perianth; style-bases slender; seed discoid, 1–1.5 mm diam., brown, shiny. Flowers mostly Feb.–Apr.