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Bongardia chrysogonum

Bongardia chrysogonum
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleperennialedibleedible leafedible rootnative asiaperennial
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Bongardia chrysogonum (Bongardia chrysogonum) — botanical photograph
Pl. FA1F — Bongardia chrysogonum
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Overview

Bongardia chrysogonum, a perennial plant native to regions including Afghanistan, Cyprus, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Lebanon-Syria, Libya, North Caucasus, Pakistan, Palestine, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, thrives in full sun and a variety of soil conditions, from dry to moist. This plant can grow up to 0.2 meters tall and is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. Known for its edible leaves and roots, Bongardia chrysogonum is commonly found in habitats ranging from the North Caucasus to Uzbekistan. The leaves can be eaten fresh or cooked, while the roots are typically dug up and dried for later use. Both parts add a mild flavor to dishes, making this plant a versatile addition to gardens or landscapes where its light and soil preferences are met. While not medicinal, its edible qualities make it a valuable plant for those interested in foraging or gardening.

Quick answers

What is Bongardia chrysogonum?

Bongardia chrysogonum, a perennial plant native to regions including Afghanistan, Cyprus, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Lebanon-Syria, Libya, North Caucasus, Pakistan, Palestine, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, thrives in full sun

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Bongardia chrysogonum thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining, light soil that is either dry or moist. It is hardy in zones 8-11 and grows to a height of 0.2 meters as a perennial. For cultivation, ensure the plant receives ample sunlight and water it according to its needs, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Propagate through root division or seed sowing. The edible parts include leaves and roots, making this plant useful both for ornamental purposes and as an edible addition to your garden.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy)
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Bongardia chrysogonum for the first time

7steps

Start with Bongardia chrysogonum by planting it in a sunny spot and providing well-draining soil.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or small plants, potting mix, container if needed.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant Bongardia chrysogonum in spring after the last frost.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a light, sandy soil. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep or transplant young plants into well-prepared soil.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water sparingly to keep the soil moist but not wet, and place in a sunny spot.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun exposure and avoid overwatering. Mulch around plants for moisture retention.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves to maintain plant health and appearance.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The leaves and roots of Bongardia chrysogonum are edible. The leaves can be eaten fresh or cooked, while the roots are typically dug up and dried for later use. Both parts add a mild flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

18 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across3 continents· 18 native
Europe3 regions
native (3)CyprusGreeceRussia
Asia9 regions
native (9)AfghanistanIranIraqKazakhstanPakistanPalestineTurkeyTurkmenistanUzbekistan
Africa1 region
native (1)Libya
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Kirgizstan, Lebanon-Syria, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Bongardia chrysogonum (Bongardia chrysogonum) — botanical photograph
Bongardia chrysogonum (Bongardia chrysogonum)
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Explore further

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About this entry

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