Amaranthaceae is a family of flowering plants (Angiospermae) with about 175 genera and more than 2,500 species, mostly herbs and subshrubs, distributed nearly worldwide. Members of the family can be annuals or perennials. The simple leaves are sometimes succulent or hairy and are usually arranged alternately along the stems. The stems, roots, leaves, or flowers of many species are red in colour because of the presence of characteristic betalain pigments.