The genus Amaranthus is grown commercially for high-value edible seeds, vegetable, forage and ornamental uses. The enhancement breeding is to develop traits that are not available in commercial Amaranthus varieties. This breeding is compatible with the conservation, maintenance, characterization, and evaluation activities that support a collection of 3300 accessions of diverse Amaranthus germplasm for research and crop improvement. Iowa State University has released five improved lines; their traits include non-shattering seed cases, and large stems with good resistance to lodging for biomass. The Non-shattering trait results in better seed retention which may improve seed yields, and improve ornamental lines for cut-flower use. Phenotypic trait evaluation information can be found in the GRIN database . Accessions have been identified with the following traits: non-shattering, male sterility, heavy seeds, and dark red foliage. Accessions with red foliage pigmentation have potential for use in food coloring. The next goal is to document accessions that have minimal crossing with weedy Amaranthus species Incompatibility with weedy species may be useful for maintaining pure commercial lines.