Astragalus echinus
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
Requires a dry well-drained soil in a sunny position. Plants are intolerant of root disturbance and are best planted in their final positions whilst still small. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby.
Propagation
Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. As soon as it is large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter, planting them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.
Edible uses
A sweet manna exudes from the plant. Manna can be used as a sweetener in various foods, or to make a drink[K].
Habitat
Not known
Native range
W. Asia - Syria.