European milkvetch

Astragalus hamosus

Physical Characteristics

Astragalus hamosus is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from July to September. 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 - Mediterranean to Armenia, Ukraine and the Caucasus.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seedpod Edible Uses: Young seedpods - cooked[2, 105, 177]. They quickly become tough and fibrous[K]. The young seedpods are also used in salads. They have only a mediocre taste, but look very much like certain worms and so are used mainly for their novelty value[2].

Medicinal Uses

Demulcent Emollient Galactogogue Laxative The plant is demulcent, emollient, galactogogue and laxative[240]. It is useful in treating irritation of the mucous membranes, nervous affections and catarrh[240].

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].