Psoralea subacaulis
Torr.&A.Gray.
Whiterim scurfpea
gbif· cc-by-nc
Eastern Kentucky University, Ronald L. Jones Herbarium (EKY)
gbif· cc-by-nc
Eastern Kentucky University, Ronald L. Jones Herbarium (EKY)
gbif· cc-by-nc
William & Mary
Description
Psoralea subacaulis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) 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 Uses
Root - raw or cooked. It can also be dried, ground into a powder and used in soups or with cereals for making bread etc.
Known Hazards
Although no specific mention of toxicity for this species has been found, at least some members of this genus contain furanocoumarins, these substances can cause photosensitivity in some people.
Distribution
South-eastern N. America.
Where It Grows
Coming Soon
Cultivation
We have very little information for this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in an ordinary garden soil. Requires a well-drained soil in a sunny position. Plants are very intolerant of root disturbance, they are best planted out into their permanent positions whilst still small. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby.
Propagation
Pre-soak the seed for 24 hours in warm water and then sow in early to mid spring in a greenhouse. Either sow the seed in individual pots or pot up the young seedlings as soon as possible in order to avoid root disturbance. Grow them on in the pots until planting out in their final positions. It is usually impossible to transplant this species without fatal damage to the root. Division in spring. With great care since the plant resents root disturbance. It is virtually impossible to divide this species successfully.
Other Uses
Soil stabilization. The plant is a good soil stabilizer in its natural environment.
