Whiterim scurfpea
Psoralea subacaulisfam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 8AE8 — Psoralea subacaulis
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IOverview
Overview
Whiterim scurfpea (Psoralea subacaulis) is a perennial herb native to the southeastern United States, specifically Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. 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, whiterim scurfpea is known for its edible root, which adds a valuable resource to local cuisine. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to grow in diverse habitats, contributing to the ecological richness of its native range.
Quick answers
What is Whiterim scurfpea?
Whiterim scurfpea (Psoralea subacaulis) is a perennial herb native to the southeastern United States, specifically Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. 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
Whiterim scurfpea thrives in full sun and prefers a variety of soil types—light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but can also handle moist conditions. This perennial grows to about 0.2 meters tall and is native to Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. For propagation, gardeners may use root cuttings. The plant is hardy in temperate regions and is edible, with its roots being the part used.
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 Whiterim scurfpea for the first time
8steps
Whiterim scurfpea is a straightforward perennial for beginners, focusing on basic care and patience.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot or garden bed, seeds or young plants.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil is warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil; amend with compost if needed. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in the garden bed, or start indoors and transplant young plants.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged during germination. Provide light shade if starting indoors.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water sparingly; prefers dry to moist conditions. Mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain shape. Harvest roots in fall when mature.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough light during germination.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Whiterim scurfpea's root is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often dug from the ground and used fresh or dried for later use. The roots can be boiled or roasted to enhance their flavor before consumption.
Other uses:Erosion controlNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Tennessee
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
XII
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