Originated in Mexico where it is called Quelite or Blero. Staple cultivated crop of the Aztecs, Incas and Mayas before Spanish colonialists banned it. Amaranth was preserved in hard to reach mountains of Central and South America. The flowers of the 'Hopi Red Dye' amaranth were used by the Hopi as a deep red dye. First introduced as an ornamental plant in Europe in the 16th century. High in vitamin A, C, folate and several minerals. Gluten free source of protein. Delicious amaranth recipes.