Chinese Milk Vetch, Ren Dong, Huang Qi (less common)
Astragalus chinensis
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Chinese Milk Vetch is primarily used as a green manure and cover crop in permaculture systems. It's a nitrogen fixer, enriching the soil. It can also be used as forage for livestock. While some Astragalus species are used medicinally, Astragalus chinensis is not widely known for its medicinal properties compared to Astragalus membranaceus. It improves soil structure and suppresses weeds.
Permapeople description
Astragalus chinensis is a plant species in the genus Astragalus, native to China.
Botanical description
Astragalus chinensis is an herbaceous perennial legume. It features pinnately compound leaves with multiple leaflets. The flowers are typically pea-like, often yellow or white, and arranged in racemes. The plant produces pods containing seeds. It typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet. Roots can extend deep into the soil. It thrives in well-drained soil and sunny locations. Leaves are oblong to lanceolate.
Companion planting
Favorable: Beneficial to most plants as it fixes nitrogen in the soil. Particularly beneficial to heavy feeders like corn, tomatoes, and brassicas. Unfavorable: Can be allelopathic to certain species if allowed to decompose in place in high concentrations. Avoid planting near other legumes in the same family to reduce competition.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily through seeds. Scarification of the seeds may be required to improve germination rates. Cuttings and root division are less common but possible in certain circumstances.
History and traditions
While not as extensively documented as Astragalus membranaceus, Astragalus chinensis is traditionally used in some parts of China as a soil amendment. Its nitrogen-fixing properties have long been recognized by local farmers. It may have minor traditional uses similar to other Astragalus species, but these are less prevalent.
Usage calendar
Planting: Spring or early Fall. Flowering: Summer. Harvesting (for green manure): Before seed set, typically in late spring or summer. Pruning: Not typically pruned, but dead or damaged foliage can be removed at any time.