Common Name:

General Information

Caragana gerardiana is a spiny, deciduous shrub of close, compact form; it usually grow 60 - 120cm tall[, ].
The plant is sometimes grown as an ornamental, where it can b used to make an impenetrable hedge.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

Asia - Afghanistan, Pakistan, northern India, Nepal. Western China (Qinghai, Xizang)

Habitat

On slopes in scrub; at elevations from 3,700 - 4,200 metres[].

Properties

Other Uses Rating
Habit	Deciduous Shrub
Height	1.00 m
Pollinators	Insects
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Caragana gerardiana grows at high elevations in the dry inner valleys of the Himalayas and grows best in continental climates. Whilst very cold-hardy, it does not like growing in moist, cloudy, mild climates. It requires plenty of sun to ripen its wood and, in mild climates, can be excited into growth too early - this new growth being susceptible to damage by late frosts[, , ].
Prefers full sun and a light sandy dry or well-drained soil in a hot position[, , ]. Does not require a rich soil, succeeding on marginal land[, ].
Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[].
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

Plants can be grown as a low impenetrable hedge. They are viciously spiny[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame[]. It usually germinates in 2 weeks[]. Stored seed should be pre-soaked for 24 hours in warm water then sown in a cold frame[, , ]. If the seed has not swollen then scarify it and re-soak for another 12 hours before sowing[]. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 3 weeks at 20°c[]. Good percentage[]. As soon as they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 7 - 10cm with a heel, mid summer in a frame[].
Layering in spring.