Small Indian Breadroot (Psoralea hypogaea)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Psoralea hypogaea is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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 or moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in starch. — Root - raw or cooked.; The root can also be dried, ground into a powder and used in soups or with cereals for making bread etc.; The root is up to 60mm long and 15mm thick.; The root was an important food source fr the native North American Indians.

Habitat & North American Range

Rocky or sandy prairies, bluffs and stream valleys. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)