Milkvetch

Astragalus edulis

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Basic Information

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae

Genus: astragalus

Plant ID (slug): astragalus-edulis

Numeric ID: 23002

USDA Hardiness: Coming soon

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Astragalus edulis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry soil.

Distribution

Europe to W. Asia - Mediterranean to Iran.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked[46, 61]. Used fresh or dried[177].

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].