Caragana arborescens - ordinary pea bush

Caragana Arborescence, generally known as an ordinary pea bush, belongs to the Fabaceae family. This species is particularly valued for its ability to thrive in extreme climate conditions and plays an important role in soil maintenance and agricultural use. Caragana Arborescens was first described by the German botanist Friedrich August Marschall von Bieberstein in the 19th century. This plant is closely related to other types of the Caragana genus, but differs in its striking growth shape and adaptability.

Morphological characteristics

Caragana Arborescens is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach a height of 2 to 6 meters. The plant has an expansive, open growth shape with thin, green to gray -brown branches. The leaves are feathered and consist of 8 to 12 couples from small, elliptical to lanceolate leaves. The leaves are typically 3 to 5 centimeters long and have a fine, soft texture.

The flowers of Caragana Arborescens are bright yellow and butterfly-shaped, a typical feature of the Fabaceae family. They appear in grapes of two to five flowers in late spring until early summer. The flowers are hermaphrodite and are pollinated by insects. After flowering, elongated, bean -like legumes develop, which are up to 5 centimeters long and contain several small, round seeds. The ripe fruits burst open when dry and sprinkle the seeds.

Ecological claims and distribution

Caragana arborescens is extremely adaptable and can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy and stony floors. The plant prefers well -permeable soils and can grow in both alkaline and slightly acidic conditions. It is very dry -resistant and can withstand temperatures up to -40 ° C, which makes it ideal for cultivation in cold, arid regions.

The natural distribution of Caragana Arborescens extends over Siberia, Mongolia and Northern China. Due to its robust nature and its ability to fix nitrogen, the plant is cultivated worldwide in moderate and cold climates, in particular for erosion control and soil improvement.

Cultural and agricultural importance

Caragana Arborescens has a long history of use in agriculture and landscape design. The plant is often used as a wind protection hedge and to stabilize embankments. Their deep roots help to bind the ground and prevent erosion. In addition, the plant improves soil fertility through symbiosis with nitrogen -fixing bacteria in its root nodules.

In agriculture, Caragana Arborescens is also used as a feed plant. The leaves and young shoots are rich in protein and serve as a source of food for cattle. The seeds can be used in animal nutrition, although they are less common in human nutrition due to their high tannin content.

Care and increase

The care of Caragana Arborescens is relatively uncomplicated. The plant only needs minimal care as soon as it is established. Regular pruning promotes a thicker growth shape and removes dead or damaged branches. The plant should be irrigated during longer dry periods to avoid stress, especially in the first years after planting.

The increase is mainly through seeds that can be sown in autumn or spring. The seeds need cold straification to break the germ rest, which means that they have to be exposed to a period of low temperatures before they can germinate. Alternatively, the plant can be increased by cuttings, although this is less common.