Edge/ Cottonweed

COMMON NAME: Cottonweed

OTHER COMMON NAME(S): Slender Cottonweed

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Froelichia gracilis

FAMILY: Amaranthaceae

COMMUNITY: Edge

STATUS: Recently introduced from Western USA into our area, not yet naturalized

LIFESPAN: Annual

HEIGHT: 6 to 18 inches

FLOWERING TIME: Late July to late September

FRUITING TIME:

DISTRIBUTION: Ontario to Arkansas ~ Throughout Delaware Valley and Atlantic and Ocean Counties in New Jersey

IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: Slender erect or nearly prostrate, commonly branched from near the base ~ Leaves mostly below middle of the stem, linear, hairy ~ Flowers in conical, small axillary clusters

GENERAL INFORMATION: This family (Amaranthaceae), commonly called the Amaranth Family, consists of 71 genera and 800 species of mostly herbs; but, also shrubs and small trees.  This family is found mostly in tropical, subtropical and warm regions. The seeds of another member of this genus, Amaranthus caudatus, commonly named Inca’s Wheat have been an important food-crop in South America for centuries.   The highly colored garden Amaranthus are cultivars of Amaranthus caudatus and Amaranthus tricolor.  Cockscomb, Celosia cristata, is another colorful family member. Cottonweed is found in dry sandy soil such as on railroad sides.  The mature flowers resemble small tufts of cotton.           

Please note: While harvesting wild berries/fruit is permitted at Island Beach State Park, visitors must adhere to park regulations at all times and must not damage vegetation or go off designated trails.  This information is presented for educational purposes.