Chinese Pea Shrub

Caragana sinica

Physical Characteristics

Caragana sinica is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen in September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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 or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

E. Asia - N. China, Korea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Edible Uses: Flowers - raw or cooked[46, 61, 105, 177]. Boiled and washed[179].

Medicinal Uses

Antiinflammatory Restorative Tonic VD The root contains a number of medically active constituents including saponins, stilbenes and caraganosides[279]. It has been shown to have antiinflammatory activity and is used in Korea in the treatment of arthritis, neuralgia, diarrhoea and bone weakness[279]. It is said to be restorative and tonic[74]. The stem is made into a broth with other foods and used in the treatment of advanced syphilis[218].

Known Hazards

None known