Manna Tree

Alhagi mannifera

Physical Characteristics

Alhagi mannifera is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

N. Africa - Egypt to Turkey.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Manna Root Edible Uses: A sweet-tasting manna is exuded from the twigs at flowering time[2, 22, 46, 61]. It is exuded during hot weather according to one report[1], whilst another says that the twigs themselves are chewed[177]. Root - cooked. A famine food, it is only used in times of need[46, 61, 177].

Medicinal Uses

Diaphoretic Diuretic Expectorant Laxative The whole plant is diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant and laxative[46, 114]. An oil from the leaves is used in the treatment of rheumatism[238]. The flowers are used in the treatment of piles[238].

Known Hazards

None known