Megacarpaea megalocarpa
Megacarpaea megalocarpafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 589B — Megacarpaea megalocarpa
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IOverview
Overview
Megacarpaea megalocarpa, a perennial plant native to regions including East European Russia, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Qinghai, South European Russia, Uzbekistan, and Xinjiang, thrives in full sun and prefers dry to moist conditions with light or medium soil. This hardy plant grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is known for its edible roots, making it a valuable resource in its native range. Its distinctive features include adaptability to various habitats and the culinary use of its underground parts.
Quick answers
What is Megacarpaea megalocarpa?
Megacarpaea megalocarpa, a perennial plant native to regions including East European Russia, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Qinghai, South European Russia, Uzbekistan, and Xinjiang, thrives in full sun and prefers dry to moist conditions with light or medium soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Megacarpaea megalocarpa thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate dry conditions but also benefits from moist soil. This perennial grows to about 0.3 meters tall and is hardy in zones 6-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. For propagation, gardeners can use root cuttings. Regular watering and ample sunlight are key to its success.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
6-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Megacarpaea megalocarpa for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple and hardy perennial that thrives in various conditions, making it perfect for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Megacarpaea megalocarpa seeds or young plants, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil mix suitable for light (sandy) to medium soils. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.3 meters apart in the ground, or start young plants indoors and transplant them later.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly but ensure the soil does not dry out completely. Keep the plant in a sunny spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and water only when the soil is very dry. Prune lightly to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young plants to encourage bushy growth, but avoid heavy cutting as it may affect flowering.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly draining soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Megacarpaea megalocarpa is edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. It is commonly prepared by boiling to soften the flesh before consumption. Skip
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 7 native
Europe1 region
native (1)Russia
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaKazakhstanUzbekistan
Broader regions
native:Kirgizstan
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
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 589bc9cd-16aa-43d7-9098-7e0627687593
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