This variety of Astragalus is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Bumblebees and honeybees enjoy this perennial, as well as hummingbirds and some butterflies (it’s a larval host to the Western Tailed Blue butterfly). The leaves are fern-like and provide unique garden texture.
Astragalus membranaceus is also known as Mongolian milkvetch. It is a flowering plant in the legume family, which includes peas. The genus Astragalus is the largest genus of plants in terms of described species, with over 3,000 species of herbs and small shrubs native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
(Astragalus Membranaceus)
~100 seeds per packet
ASTRAGALUS SEEDS
PLANTING & GROWING
In the spring scratch the seeds with sandpaper and plant into well draining soil. Astragalus enjoys full sun to partial shade.
MEDICINAL BENEFITS
- Immunity
- Energy
- Antimicrobial
- Adaptogen
NOTE: Do not consume raw. Astragalus root is used in medicine when dried and steeped into a tea.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
FLAVOR & PAIRING
Astragalus root has one of the most enjoyable flavors. It has a semi sweet startchy rooty flavor. It pairs well with cinnamon, lucuma, honey, and more.
LANDSCAPING TIPS
Single specimens will work fine, but given Astragalus's unassuming bloom spikes, massing might give you a more dramatic effect. Consider using it in drifts among short grasses or near the front of a border.