Calligonum aphyllum

Physical Characteristics

Calligonum aphyllum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in leaf all year, in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). 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 or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Europe to Asia - Caspian Sea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Gum Young shoots - cooked[105]. An edible gum or mucilage is obtained from the leaves[105]. The pounded root furnishes an edible mucilaginous substance resembling gum tragacanth (see Ferula species)[2, 177]. One report says that the plant has an edible fruit[105]. This possibly refers to the seed.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known