Status:
valid
Authors:
L.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1753
Citation Micro:
Sp. Pl.: 714 (1753)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000212597
Common Names
- Galega officinalis
- Officinalis Galega
- Galega
Synonyms
- Galega persica Pers. [valid]
- Galega bicolor Boiss. & Hausskn. ex Regel [valid]
- Galega vulgaris Lam. [illegitimate]
- Galega patula Steven [valid]
- Tephrosia tricolor (Hook.) Sweet [valid]
- Accorombona tricolor (Hook.) Benth. ex Walp. [valid]
- Callotropis tricolor (Hook.) G.Don [valid]
- Galega biloba Sweet [valid]
- Galega coronilloides Freyn & Sint. [valid]
- Galega tricolor Hook. [valid]
Description
Galega officinalis (also called G. officinalis, among many other common names) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia. It grows up to 30 cm tall and has grey-green leaves. It is found in grasslands, meadows and other open habitats.
Uses & Benefits
Galega officinalis is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a source of food for livestock. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Flower of Galega officinalis is yellow, with a long, cylindrical corolla, and the seed is a small, oblong, flattened pod. The seedlings are small, with a single, rounded cotyledon.
Cultivation and Propagation
Galega officinalis is a perennial legume that is native to Europe. It is easy to propagate from seed, and can be grown in a variety of soils. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate temperatures down to -20°F. It can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. It can also be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Where to Find Galega officinalis
Galega officinalis can be found in the Mediterranean region, including Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece.
Galega officinalis FAQ
What is the optimal soil pH for Galega officinalis?
Galega officinalis prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
What is the optimal temperature for Galega officinalis?
Galega officinalis prefers temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is the optimal light exposure for Galega officinalis?
Galega officinalis prefers full sun to partial shade.
Species in the Galega genus
Species in the Fabaceae family