California Indian breadroot
Psoralea californica
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Pl. 8BC4 — Psoralea californica
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IOverview
Overview
California Indian breadroot, scientifically known as Psoralea californica, is a perennial herb native to the arid and semi-arid regions of California and northwestern Mexico. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Standing at about 20 cm tall, it is known for its edible root, which has been a traditional food source for indigenous communities. The distinctive feature of this plant lies in its ability to grow in diverse environments, contributing to its significance as an important resource in the region.
Quick answers
What is California Indian breadroot?
California Indian breadroot, scientifically known as Psoralea californica, is a perennial herb native to the arid and semi-arid regions of California and northwestern Mexico.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
California Indian breadroot thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. This perennial plant reaches a height of about 0.2 meters and requires little water once established. Propagate through seeds or division of the rootstock. The edible parts are the roots, which can be harvested after the plant has matured. Hardy in temperate regions, this forb/herb is native to California and Mexico Northwest.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow California Indian breadroot for the first time
8steps
Start with California Indian breadroot to gain experience in growing perennials.
- 1
What you'll need
A small shovel, seeds or young plants, a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining; mix in compost if planting in containers.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep, or plant young seedlings at the same depth.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist until germination; water less once established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water sparingly, especially in dry periods; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and stems for a tidy appearance; avoid harvesting roots as they are the main focus.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The California Indian breadroot's root is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often dried to preserve it for later use or cooked to enhance its flavor. SKIP
Other uses:Erosion controlNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:California, Mexico Northwest
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 8bc43e07-4a35-4892-93c8-374a43ea22d8
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