Contents
Description
Astragalus Coltonii, also known as Colton’s milkvetch, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the western United States and can be found growing in dry habitats, such as rocky slopes, ridges, and canyons.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
Astragalus Coltonii has a unique appearance, with its stem growing up to 20 cm tall and bearing narrow, linear leaves that are covered in fine hairs. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, and its fruit is a small, oval-shaped pod.
Care Guide
When caring for Astragalus Coltonii, it is important to provide it with the proper amount of water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering, but be careful not to overwater it as it is adapted to dry habitats.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline pH.
- Sunlight: It requires full sun exposure for optimal growth.
- Hardiness Zones: It grows best in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Coltonii may be susceptible to certain pests and diseases, including:
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot in the plant.
- Aphids: These small insects can feed on the plant’s leaves and cause damage.
- Spider mites: These pests can also feed on the plant’s leaves and cause discoloration.
Habitat
Astragalus Coltonii is commonly found growing in dry habitats, such as rocky slopes, ridges, and canyons. It is native to the western United States and can be found in states such as Utah, Nevada, and California.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astragalus Coltonii a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, it is adapted to dry habitats and can tolerate drought conditions.
Q: Can Astragalus Coltonii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the proper care is provided.
Q: How often should Astragalus Coltonii be fertilized?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the optimal hardiness zone for Astragalus Coltonii?
A: It grows best in USDA zones 4-8.
Related Plants
- Astragalus alpinus
- Astragalus cicer
- Astragalus lentiginosus
- Astragalus mollissimus
References
- “Astragalus coltonii” – USDA Plants Database
- “Colton’s milkvetch” – Utah Rare Plant Guide
- “Astragalus coltonii” – Calflora
