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Description
Oxytropis Sericea, also known as the silky locoweed or silky crazyweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the legume family Fabaceae. This plant is native to North America, specifically in the western part of the United States and Canada.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Oxytropis |
Appearance
The Oxytropis Sericea plant has a bushy habit and can reach a height of up to 60 cm. It has a taproot that can extend up to 2 meters into the soil. The stems are ascending, green, and covered with silky hairs. The leaves are small, pinnate, and have a silvery-gray color. The flowers are purple and bloom in late spring to early summer. The fruits are small, oblong, and have a brown color.
Care Guide
The Oxytropis Sericea plant is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Oxytropis Sericea in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Oxytropis Sericea plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Oxytropis Sericea plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
- Aphids: Aphids can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites can cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant.
Habitat
The Oxytropis Sericea plant is found in dry, open areas such as grasslands, meadows, and sagebrush plains. It can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions and is often found in disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Oxytropis Sericea plant poisonous?
A: Yes, the Oxytropis Sericea plant is poisonous to livestock, especially horses and cattle. It contains a toxin called swainsonine that can cause neurological damage.
Q: Can the Oxytropis Sericea plant be grown indoors?
A: No, the Oxytropis Sericea plant is not suitable for indoor growing as it requires full sun and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Oxytropis Sericea plant?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Where is the Oxytropis Sericea plant native to?
A: The Oxytropis Sericea plant is native to North America, specifically in the western part of the United States and Canada.
Related Plants
- Oxytropis Lamberti
- Oxytropis Podocarpa
- Oxytropis Splendens
References
- “Silky locoweed.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=OXYT2. Accessed 4 Jan. 2022.
- Greene, Edward Lee. “Contributions to the botany of the western United States.” Smithsonian Institution, 1891.
- Welsh, Stanley L. “A Utah Flora.” Brigham Young University Press, 1974.
