Alhagi mannifera
Alhagi manniferafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 08CD — Alhagi mannifera
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IOverview
Overview
Alhagi mannifera is a shrub or subshrub that can grow up to 1 meter in height and is native to regions including Afghanistan, Algeria, Chad, Cyprus, Egypt, Greece, and parts of the Middle East. Known for its edible roots, this plant thrives in light (sandy) and medium soil with a pH between 7 and 7.5, making it adaptable to dry and moist conditions. Its light energy requirement is moderate, indicating it can grow well under various sunlight exposures. This resilient species is found across a wide range of habitats from the Middle East to North Africa, contributing to local ecosystems and providing sustenance through its edible parts.
Quick answers
What is Alhagi mannifera?
Alhagi mannifera is a shrub or subshrub that can grow up to 1 meter in height and is native to regions including Afghanistan, Algeria, Chad, Cyprus, Egypt, Greece, and parts of the Middle East. Known for its edible roots, this plant thrives in light (sandy) and medium soil with a pH between 7 and 7.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Alhagi mannifera thrives in light to medium soil with a pH of 7-7.5 and prefers dry to moist conditions. It is a shrub or subshrub that grows up to 1 meter tall. For cultivation, it requires full sun to partial shade. The plant can be propagated through root cuttings. Given its native range in arid and semi-arid regions, Alhagi mannifera is hardy in temperate regions but may require protection in colder climates. Ensure the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging. SKIP
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Habit
Shrub, Subshrub
Mature size
1.0 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Alhagi mannifera for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple and adaptable shrub that requires minimal care.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip seeds or root cuttings, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose well-draining soil with a pH between 7 and 7.5, and prepare a container at least 30 cm wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants carefully to avoid damaging roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Skip prefers dry conditions; water only when necessary. Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip in late winter to encourage new growth and maintain the shrub's size.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues beginners should avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: Manna
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe3 regions
native (3)CyprusGreeceRussia
Asia13 regions
native (13)ChinaIndiaIranIraqKazakhstanKuwaitOmanPakistanSaudi ArabiaTurkeyTurkmenistanUzbekistanYemen
Africa6 regions
native (6)AlgeriaChadEgyptLibyaNigerSudan
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Gulf States, Sinai, Kirgizstan, Tadzhikistan, West Himalaya, Lebanon-Syria
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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