Ononis spinosa Spiny rest harrow (Leguminosae)

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Ononis spinosa
Spiny rest harrow
(1 Page of 5)

The Ononis spinosa plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Leguminosae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Spiny rest harrow. Some home gardeners know the variety as O. campestris. O. procurrens.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Ononis spinosa
Common Name:  Spiny rest harrow
Family:  Leguminosae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  0.6   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Chalk and limestone grassland, stony hillsides and open pine forests[187], mainly on dry stony ground[7].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a sunny position in a well-drained neutral to alkaline soil[200]. Succeeds in poor soils, the plant often becoming spiny in such a situation[17]. Similar to O. repens but this species is not rhizomatous[200]. Mature roots are very tough and the plant gained its common name of 'Rest Harrow' because ploughs and harrows would be unable to break through it (in the days before heavy machinery was used on the land!). The whole plant is pleasantly scented when bruised[245]. 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[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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