Contents
Description
Astragalus Tragacantha, commonly known as goat’s thorn, is a perennial plant native to the Mediterranean and western Asia. The plant belongs to the Fabaceae family and is widely cultivated for its gum resin, which has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The resin is extracted from the roots and stems of the plant and is often used in the food and pharmaceutical industries as an emulsifier and stabilizer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Astragalus |
Appearance
Astragalus Tragacantha grows up to 60cm in height and features a woody stem with numerous branches. The leaves are small, pinnately compound, and consist of numerous leaflets. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and bloom in the summer. The plant produces small, hairy pods that contain the seeds. The root system is long and extensive, allowing the plant to grow in harsh and arid environments.
Care Guide
Water: Astragalus Tragacantha is drought-resistant and can survive in dry conditions. Water the plant once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once in the spring.Soil: The plant thrives in well-draining soil with a neutral pH level. Avoid planting in heavy clay or waterlogged soil.Sunlight: Astragalus Tragacantha requires full sun exposure for optimal growth.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Tragacantha is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant may be susceptible to root rot if planted in waterlogged soil.
Habitat
Astragalus Tragacantha is native to the Mediterranean and western Asia and can be found growing in arid and semi-arid environments. The plant is commonly cultivated in Iran, Turkey, and Syria for its gum resin.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Astragalus Tragacantha be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.
Q: How long does it take for the plant to produce gum resin?
A: The plant typically produces gum resin after 3-4 years of growth.
Q: Is Astragalus Tragacantha a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, the plant is drought-resistant and can survive in dry conditions.
Q: How often should Astragalus Tragacantha be fertilized?
A: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once in the spring.
Related Plants
- Astragalus Membranaceus
- Astragalus Mongholicus
- Astragalus Sinicus
References
- “Astragalus Tragacantha.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k580
- “Astragalus Tragacantha.” Plants for a Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Astragalus+tragacantha
- “Astragalus Tragacantha.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, www.kew.org/science/tropamerica/imagedetails-powdery/astragalus-tragacantha-pers
