Roundleaf Leather Root
Psoralea orbicularisfam. Fabaceae
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 →
Pl. 314B — Psoralea orbicularis
Psoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularisPsoralea orbicularis
IOverview
Overview
Roundleaf Leather Root, scientifically known as Psoralea orbicularis, is a perennial herb native to California and the northwest region of 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). It grows to a height of only 0.1 meters, forming a low-growing habit. Known for its edible leaves, Roundleaf Leather Root is valued by those seeking native plants with culinary uses in the region. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to grow in diverse environments, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Roundleaf Leather Root?
Roundleaf Leather Root, scientifically known as Psoralea orbicularis, is a perennial herb native to California and the northwest region of 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).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Roundleaf Leather Root 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 is hardy in zones 5-9 and reaches a height of about 0.1 meters. For best results, propagate by seed or division. The edible parts are the leaves, making this a versatile addition to your garden for both ornamental and culinary purposes.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.1 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Roundleaf Leather Root for the first time
8steps
Start with Roundleaf Leather Root as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plant or seeds, a pot if starting indoors, and basic gardening tools.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in the ground or start seeds indoors and transplant seedlings after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep soil moist but not soggy, ensuring roots establish well.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure. Water only when the soil is dry and avoid overwatering. Fertilize lightly if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves to maintain plant health, but do not harvest for eating as it's not commonly done.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, and neglecting to prune dead foliage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of the Roundleaf Leather Root (Psoralea orbicularis) are edible and can be consumed fresh or dried. They are typically used in salads when fresh, adding a mild flavor to dishes. Dried leaves can also be steeped to make a tea.
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:Mexico Northwest, California
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
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 314b6f17-82c1-4e9c-8a7f-0d22db274c7c
Decision aid
Choosing between Roundleaf Leather Root and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.