Astragalus
Astragalus mongholicus
Formerly Astragalus membranaceus · also Astragalus propinquus
Also known as Mongolian Milkvetch
Climate Match for your location
See how well Astragalus grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Astragalus membranaceus is a nitrogen-fixing perennial herb with delicate pinnate leaves and small pale yellow flowers, widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for immune support. It thrives in dry conditions and poor soils, making it valuable for permaculture systems.
Why grow it
Astragalus membranaceus establishes readily in marginal soils where many nitrogen-fixing perennials struggle, making it useful for soil building in degraded areas. Compared to other legumes in permaculture systems, it tolerates drier conditions and requires less fertility amendment once established. The plant's deep root system helps break up compacted soils while fixing atmospheric nitrogen for neighboring plants.
Watch out for
Harvest timing affects both yield and root quality, so plants should be allowed to mature fully before cutting. The plant may take two to three seasons to establish sufficient biomass for commercial-scale harvesting, requiring patience in planning. In humid climates, monitor for fungal issues on foliage, particularly if air circulation is poor.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fabaceae
Native Range
Northern China, Mongolia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
Astragalus membranaceus is a nitrogen-fixing perennial herb with delicate pinnate leaves and small pale yellow flowers, widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for immune support. It thrives in dry conditions and poor soils, making it valuable for permaculture systems.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Astragalus grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Astragalus membranaceus establishes readily in marginal soils where many nitrogen-fixing perennials struggle, making it useful for soil building in degraded areas. Compared to other legumes in permaculture systems, it tolerates drier conditions and requires less fertility amendment once established. The plant's deep root system helps break up compacted soils while fixing atmospheric nitrogen for neighboring plants.
Watch out for
Harvest timing affects both yield and root quality, so plants should be allowed to mature fully before cutting. The plant may take two to three seasons to establish sufficient biomass for commercial-scale harvesting, requiring patience in planning. In humid climates, monitor for fungal issues on foliage, particularly if air circulation is poor.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fabaceae
Native Range
Northern China, Mongolia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
Similar herbs you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.