Tragacanth, Gum Tragacanth, Goat's Thorn, Shir-e-Khesht
Astragalus gummifer
🌿 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
Tragacanth gum, derived from the plant's dried sap, is primarily used as a food thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer. It has potential applications in binding soil and preventing erosion in arid environments. While not widely cultivated in home gardens, it could be incorporated into permaculture systems focusing on resource provision from dryland species. No widely available edible parts beyond the gum.
Permapeople description
A species of milkvetch in the family Fabaceae, known for producing tragacanth gum.
Botanical description
Astragalus gummifer is a low-growing, thorny shrub native to mountainous regions of the Middle East, specifically Iran, Turkey, and Syria. It belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae). The plant is characterized by its complex leaves composed of numerous small leaflets and its spinescent stipules, which help protect it from grazing animals. The plant exudes a viscous sap that hardens into tragacanth gum when exposed to air. Flowers are typically pea-like, and the plant produces small pods containing seeds.
Companion planting
Due to its thorny nature and specific environmental requirements (arid, well-drained soils), companion planting is limited. It may potentially be grown alongside other drought-tolerant shrubs and herbs native to similar regions. Avoid planting near species that require consistently moist soil.
Propagation methods
Propagation is typically achieved through seeds. Scarification of the seed coat may be necessary to improve germination rates. Cuttings are difficult due to the plant's woody nature and slow growth rate. Grafting may be possible but is not commonly practiced.
History and traditions
Tragacanth gum has a long history of use in traditional medicine and food preparation in the Middle East and Asia. Ancient civilizations valued it for its medicinal properties, including its use as a demulcent, emollient, and cough suppressant. In Persian culture, it is known as Shir-e-Khesht and is used both medicinally and in confectionery. Its use as a stabilizer and thickener in food and pharmaceuticals has expanded globally.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs in spring to early summer (April-June), depending on the altitude and climate. Gum harvesting takes place during the summer months (July-August) when the sap flow is highest. Planting is best done in the fall or early spring to allow the plants to establish before the dry season. Pruning, if necessary, should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.