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Bu Gu Zhi

Psoralea corylifoliafam. Fabaceae
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Psoralea corylifolia (Bu Gu Zhi) — botanical photograph
Pl. 6356 — Psoralea corylifolia
Psoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifoliaPsoralea corylifolia
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Overview

Bu Gu Zhi, scientifically known as Psoralea corylifolia and belonging to the Fabaceae family, is an annual plant native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, Djibouti, India, Iraq, Jawa, Laos, Malaya, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, West Himalaya, and Yemen. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay), making it adaptable to various growing conditions. Standing at a height of 0.6 meters, Bu Gu Zhi is both edible and medicinal, with its seeds being the primary part used for consumption. The seeds can be eaten raw or roasted and are often used in traditional dishes and medicines. Its adaptability and multiple uses have made Bu Gu Zhi a valuable plant in cultivation, particularly for its nitrogen-fixing properties. While the plant is safe for consumption, it is important to use caution and consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into any treatment regimen.

Quick answers

What is Bu Gu Zhi?

Bu Gu Zhi, scientifically known as Psoralea corylifolia and belonging to the Fabaceae family, is an annual plant native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, Djibouti, India, Iraq, Jawa, Laos, Malaya, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, West Himalaya, and Yemen.

Compare with:Bigroot→Blue Lupine→Chinese Lespedeza→all comparisons →
IV·b

Mixology suggestions

2 drafts
Editorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stomach Soothe
digestion
tincture
Traditional use for digestive issues.
Skin Harmony
skin
decoction
Historical use for skin conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Bu Gu Zhi thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is an annual plant reaching a height of 0.6 meters and is native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, Djibouti, India, Iraq, Jawa, Laos, among others. Propagate through seeds for best results in temperate regions.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Bu Gu Zhi for the first time

7steps

Start with planting Bu Gu Zhi in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds, potting mix, containers or garden space.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant seeds in spring after the last frost.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Sow seeds directly into the ground or start them indoors, then transplant after danger of frost passes.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; provide full sun exposure.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly and mulch to retain moisture. Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer every few months.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune plants in late winter before new growth starts; harvest seeds when they turn brown.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seeds of Bu Gu Zhi (Psoralea corylifolia) are edible and can be consumed raw or roasted. They are often used in traditional dishes and medicines. Skip
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

17 native · 3 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 17 native· 3 introduced
Asia11 regions
native (11)BangladeshChinaIndiaIraqLaosMyanmarOmanPakistanSri LankaVietnamYemen
Africa3 regions
native (2)DjiboutiSomalia
introduced (1)Mauritius
Broader regions
native:Jawa, Malaya, West Himalaya
introduced:Réunion, Socotra
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Psoralea corylifolia (Bu Gu Zhi) — botanical photograph
Bu Gu Zhi (Psoralea corylifolia)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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