Large Leather Root

Psoralea macrostachya

Physical Characteristics

Psoralea macrostachya is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). 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 and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

South-western N. America - California.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - raw, cooked or dried for winter use. Starchy[105, 177].

Medicinal Uses

Salve The plant has been used in the treatment of ulcers and sores[257].

Known Hazards

This species contains furanocoumarins, these substances can cause photosensitivity in some people[65].