Persian Manna

Astragalus adscendens

Physical Characteristics

Astragalus adscendens is a deciduous Shrub. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry soil.

Distribution

W. Asia - N. Iraq, Turkey.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Gum Gum A source of gum tragacanth - a thickener that is used in confections[61, 64, 114, 177]. Some exudes naturally from the plant, more can be obtained by incision of the stem about 5cm below ground level[64].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Many members of this genus contain toxic glycosides[65]. All species with edible seedpods can be distinguished by their fleshy round or oval seedpod that looks somewhat like a greengage.[85] A number of species can also accumulate toxic levels of selenium when grown in soils that are relatively rich in that element[65].