Has anyone grown Astragalus? Other names are Milk Vetch, Yellow Vetch, and Chinese Astragalus. I'n told that it shows promise to support cancer patients during radiation and chemotherapy and strengthens the immune system. I've googled it a bit and it seems it is a perennial spreading legume that can become invasive - so before I plant any in my smallish garden, I'd appreciate any experiences you might have.
No personal experience with growing it. The following might help.
There are over 2000 different varieties of Astragalus which are used medicinally.
Perennial legume. Also known as Milk Vetch or Huang Qi. Fern-like fronds of leaves grow about 15cm long, and flowers of white or yellow. The branched tap root is about 20cm long. Seed pods resemble miniature soybeans.
Cultivation: Propagate by seed in spring or autumn. Seed may be slow to germinate, and may benefit from refrigeration for 2 weeks prior to sowing, or from being shaken in dry sharp sand. Grows best in sandy, slightly alkaline soil in full sun.
Harvesting: Roots are harvested in spring or autumn at 4-5 years. Before completely dry cut into thin diagonal slices or slice lengthwise. Once dry, they can then be roasted with honey if desired, or used to make decoctions, powders or added to soups. Collect gum from second year plants by incising the stem base. Dry and use it as a powder.
Warning: Collect and use only the roots  the aerial parts are poisonous. Do not use if suffering from a fever or from any skin disorder. Do not use if suffering from asthma.
Thank you Daisy for this information. Cripes! it sounds lethal not curative! Not sure I'll bother with it. Very interesting though. 2000 varieties eh? I wonder how safe the herbal pills are.
Daisyduckworth
cosmicgardenerOriginal Author