Status:
valid
Authors:
Maassoumi & Podlech
Source:
ildis
Year:
1988
Citation Micro:
Mitt. Bot. Staatssamml. München25: 788 (1988)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000189527
Common Names
- Basil Astragalus
- Basil Milkvetch
- Basil Pea
Description
Astragalus basilicus (also called Basil Milkvetch, among many other common names) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Turkey. It has a spreading habit and grows to a height of around 120 cm. It prefers dry, sandy soils in open areas and can be found in steppe and desert habitats.
Uses & Benefits
Astragalus basilicus is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fatigue, fever, and digestive issues. It is also used as an herbal supplement to boost the immune system and improve overall health.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Astragalus basilicus has yellow flowers with a sweet scent. The seeds are small and round, and the seedlings have narrow, green leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Astragalus basilicus is a hardy perennial that can be grown in USDA zones 4-9. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Propagation is best done by division of the root clumps in the spring or by seed sown in the fall. Seeds should be sown in a cold frame and will germinate in 1-3 weeks. Transplant seedlings into the garden in the spring.
Where to Find Astragalus basilicus
Astragalus basilicus can be found in Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan.
Astragalus basilicus FAQ
What is the scientific name of Astragalus basilicus?
Astragalus basilicus
What is the natural habitat of Astragalus basilicus?
Astragalus basilicus is native to Iran.
What is the flowering period of Astragalus basilicus?
Astragalus basilicus flowers from April to May.
Species in the Astragalus genus
Astragalus rumelicus,
Astragalus nevadensis,
Astragalus tymphresteus,
Astragalus alpinus,
Astragalus penduliflorus,
Astragalus anni-novi,
Astragalus austroargentinus,
Astragalus beatleyae,
Astragalus iselyi,
Astragalus moranii,
Astragalus neoburkartianus,
Astragalus neuquenensis,
Astragalus oxyphysopsis,
Astragalus phoenix,
Astragalus sanctorum,
Astragalus schinetorum,
Astragalus amnis-amissi,
Astragalus ampullarius,
Astragalus andersonii,
Astragalus anemophilus,
Astragalus anisus,
Astragalus applegatii,
Astragalus aquilonius,
Astragalus arequipensis,
Astragalus argentinus,
Astragalus argophyllus,
Astragalus aridus,
Astragalus arizonicus,
Astragalus arrectus,
Astragalus arthurii,
Astragalus asclepiadoides,
Astragalus asplundii,
Astragalus asymmetricus,
Astragalus atratus,
Astragalus austiniae,
Astragalus beathii,
Astragalus beckwithii,
Astragalus bellus,
Astragalus bernardinus,
Astragalus berteri,
Astragalus bicristatus,
Astragalus bisulcatus,
Astragalus bodinii,
Astragalus bolanderi,
Astragalus bourgovii,
Astragalus brackenridgei,
Astragalus brandegei,
Astragalus brauntonii,
Astragalus brazoensis,
Astragalus breweri,
Species in the Fabaceae family