Megacarpaea megalocarpa - (Fisch.)Schisch.

(Fisch.)Schisch.

Brassicaceae Edible: Root

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Osmonali Bektemir

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ivansemenkov

gbif· cc-by-nc

ivansemenkov

Description

Megacarpaea megalocarpa is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Edible Uses

Root - cooked. Starchy, thick and nutritious. The root is up to 3cm thick.

Distribution

E. Europe to C. Asia.

Where It Grows

Coming Soon

Cultivation

Requires a light well-drained soil in a sunny position. The flowers are normally hermaphrodite but are sometimes monoecious or reduced.

Propagation

Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame if this is possible. Otherwise sow it in early spring in a cold frame. Prick the seedlings out into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse or cold frame for at least their first winter. Plant out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer. Root cuttings may succeed.