Marah fabaceus - (Naudin.)Greene.
(Naudin.)Greene.
Bigroot, California manroot
gbif· cc-by-nc
Laura Pollock
gbif· cc-by-nc
Sue Lindner
gbif· cc0
Richard Fuller
Description
Marah fabaceus is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 6 m (19ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from July to September. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. 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 moist soil.
Edible Uses
Used as a vegetable. We do not know if the fruit, root or the leaves are used.
Known Hazards
The root is said to be poisonous to fish. We have no reports as to whether or not it is toxic to mammals.
Distribution
South-western N. America - California.
Where It Grows
Coming Soon
Cultivation
Requires a rich soil and abundant moisture. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to between -5 and -10°c. A climbing plant, supporting itself by means of tendrils.
Propagation
Seed - sow early spring in pots of rich soil in a greenhouse. Germination usually takes place within 1 - 2 weeks at 20°c. Put 2 or 3 seeds in each pot and thin to the best plant. Grow on fast and plant out after the last expected frosts.
Other Uses
Hair. The crushed seeds, mixed with oil, have been rubbed on the hair to prevent baldness.
