Shinanensis Milkvetch (Astragalus shinanensis)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Astragalus shinanensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. 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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves - cooked. A famine food, used when all else fails. — Young leaves - cooked.; A famine food, used when all else fails.

Habitat & North American Range

Lowland and high mountains, C. and N. Japan. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)