Liquorice Root, Western sweetvetch
Hedysarum occidentale
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Basic Information
Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae
Genus: hedysarum
Plant ID (slug): hedysarum-occidentale
Numeric ID: 21567
USDA Hardiness: 4-8
Ratings
Physical Characteristics
Hedysarum occidentale is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Distribution
Western N. America - Montana to Washington, south to Utah and Colorado.
Habitats
Cultivated Beds;
Edible Uses
Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[212]. Long and sweet with a liquorice-like flavour[183]. Used in the spring it is crisp and juicy' but it becomes tough and woody as the season advances.
Medicinal Uses
None known
Known Hazards
None known
Detailed Information
Additional Information
Title: Hedysarum occidentale Liquorice Root, Western sweetvetch