The genus Astragalus is an enormous group of more than 2,000 species distributed worldwide. Astragalus membranaceus is a perennial, blossoms from Juny to August and the seeds ripen from July to September. A graceful, flowing plant with long stems bearing paired, pointed leaves and purple flowers. Astragalus membranaceus is perennial herbs native to the northern provinces of China and are cultivated in China, Korea, and Japan. Astragalus roots are sold as long pieces, which have a tough, fibrous skin with a lighter interior.