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Description
Astragalus Alopecurus, also known as the Silver Hair Astragalus, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of western North America, including California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. The plant has a long taproot that allows it to survive in dry and arid conditions. The stem of the Astragalus Alopecurus is erect, growing up to 30 cm in height. The leaves are small and hairy, with a silver-green color. The flowers of the plant are small and bloom in early summer, producing a pinkish-lavender color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
The Astragalus Alopecurus has a distinct silver-green color due to the fine hairs present on its leaves and stems. The plant has a taproot that can grow up to 30 cm in length, allowing it to anchor itself in dry and arid soil. The stem is erect and can grow up to 30 cm in height. The leaves are small and oblong, measuring 1-3 cm in length. The flowers of the plant bloom in early summer and have a pinkish-lavender color. The flowers are small and grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The plant produces small, oblong, and hairy seed pods that contain the seeds.
Care Guide
To grow an Astragalus Alopecurus successfully, ensure it is planted in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. The plant requires full sunlight, and it is recommended to plant it in hardiness zones 5-9. Water the plant regularly but ensure the soil is not too wet, as the plant prefers to grow in dry conditions. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plant after blooming to promote new growth and maintain its shape.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Astragalus Alopecurus is susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It is also vulnerable to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To prevent pests and diseases, ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and not overwatered. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat any pest problems.
Habitat
The Astragalus Alopecurus is native to the mountainous regions of western North America, including California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. The plant prefers to grow in dry and arid conditions and can be found in rocky areas, forests, and grasslands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Astragalus Alopecurus a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, the Astragalus Alopecurus is a drought-tolerant plant due to its long taproot that allows it to anchor itself in dry and arid conditions.
Q: What is the blooming period of the Astragalus Alopecurus?
A: The Astragalus Alopecurus blooms in early summer, producing small pinkish-lavender flowers.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for growing Astragalus Alopecurus?
A: It is recommended to plant Astragalus Alopecurus in hardiness zones 5-9.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Astragalus Alopecurus?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Astragalus canadensis
- Astragalus coccineus
- Astragalus lentiginosus
- Astragalus missouriensis
- Astragalus scopulorum
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASAL4
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/astragalus-alpecurus-silver-hair-astragalus
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/astragalus/silver-hair-astragalus.htm
