Creticus Milkvetch (Astragalus creticus)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Astragalus creticus is a deciduous Shrub. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It can fix Nitrogen. 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 soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

A source of gum tragacanth - used as a thickener in confections. Some exudes naturally, more can be obtained by incision of the stem about 5cm below ground level. — A source of gum tragacanth - used as a thickener in confections.; Some exudes naturally, more can be obtained by incision of the stem about 5cm below ground level.

Habitat & North American Range

Mountains in the S. Balkans. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)