Siberian pea shrub, Caragana arborescens

The seed can be eaten cooked. Small but produced in abundance, there are 4 - 6 seeds per pod. A bland flavour, it is best used in spicy dishes.

The raw seed has a mild pea-like flavour, though we are not sure if it should be eaten in quantity when raw.

The seed contains 12.4% of a fatty oil and up to 36% protein.

More than just an emergency food, this species has the potential to become a staple crop in areas with continental climates.

Young pods - cooked and used as a vegetable.

 A fibre obtained from the bark is used for making cordage.

A blue dye is obtained from the leaves.

The seed contains 12.4% of a fatty oil.

The plant can be grown as a hedge. It is quite wind-resistant and can also be planted in a shelter belt.

The plant has an extensive root system and can be used for erosion control, especially on marginal land. Because of its nitrogen-fixing capacity, it is valued as a soil-improving plant.