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Description
Astragalus Coccineus, commonly known as Scarlet Milk Vetch, is a perennial flowering plant that is native to the western regions of North America. This plant belongs to the Fabaceae family and can grow up to 1-2 feet in height. It has a deep taproot system and can grow in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, dry meadows, and gravelly areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
The Astragalus Coccineus plant produces bright red flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are arranged in spikes and grow up to 1 inch long. The leaves are compound and consist of 10-30 leaflets that are narrow and oval-shaped. The stems are hairy and have a reddish tint. The plant’s root system is deep and extensive, allowing it to adapt to a variety of soil types and moisture levels.
Care Guide
Water: Astragalus Coccineus plants prefer well-draining soil and do not require frequent watering. They can tolerate drought conditions but should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season.Fertilization: These plants do not require heavy fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.Soil: Scarlet Milk Vetch plants prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and gravelly soils.Sunlight: These plants prefer full sun exposure but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Astragalus Coccineus plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Coccineus plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly drained soil. Insects such as aphids and spider mites may occasionally be a problem and can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Astragalus Coccineus plants are native to the western regions of North America, including California, Nevada, and Arizona. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, dry meadows, and gravelly areas. These plants are well adapted to drought conditions and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Astragalus Coccineus plants tolerate extreme heat?
A: Yes, these plants are well adapted to hot and dry conditions and can tolerate extreme heat.
Q: How often should I water Scarlet Milk Vetch plants?
A: These plants do not require frequent watering and can tolerate drought conditions. Water deeply once a week during the growing season.
Q: Are Astragalus Coccineus plants attractive to pollinators?
A: Yes, these plants are attractive to bees and other pollinators and can help support local ecosystems.
Q: Can Scarlet Milk Vetch plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, these plants can be grown in containers as long as they have well-draining soil and receive adequate sunlight.
Related Plants
- Astragalus Membranaceus
- Astragalus Canadensis
- Astragalus Sinicus
- Astragalus Gummifer
References
- “Astragalus Coccineus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASCO.
- “Astragalus Coccineus.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ASCO.
- “Scarlet Milk Vetch.” High Country Gardens. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/astragalus/scarlet-milk-vetch-astragalus-coccineus.
