Definition

Noun: 1. A plant cultivated for its edible young leaves and seeds: "velvet flower" refers to a species of plant (Amaranthus caudatus or related species) whose tender leaves are used as a vegetable and whose seeds are consumed as a grain or cereal.

Usage Examples

• The velvet flower is a nutritious addition to the garden, providing both greens and grains.
• In many cultures, the leaves of the velvet flower are cooked like spinach.
• The seeds of the velvet flower can be ground into flour or popped like popcorn.

Advanced Usage

• Botanical context: The term "velvet flower" is a common name that can refer to several species in the genus , particularly those with dense, velvety-looking flower heads. It is often used interchangeably with names like "love-lies-bleeding" for ornamental varieties, but the defining characteristic for this definition is its use as a food crop.

Variants and Related Words

• Amaranth (n): The more common general name for plants in the genus , including those used for grain (grain amaranth) and leafy vegetables.
• Love-lies-bleeding (n): A common name for the ornamental variety of , noted for its long, drooping red flower heads.

Synonyms

• Amaranth
• Tampala (specifically for leaf vegetable varieties)
• Chinese spinach

Notes on Different Meanings

• The primary meaning of "velvet flower" in this context is agricultural and culinary. It should not be confused with other unrelated plants or flowers that may have a velvety texture but are not used for food.

Noun

1. young leaves widely used as leaf vegetables; seeds used as cereal