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Description
Astragalus Humistratus is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is also commonly known as “Ground Plum” or “Locoweed.” This plant is native to the western United States and Mexico and is found in various habitats such as deserts, grasslands, and open woodlands.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
The Astragalus Humistratus plant grows up to 12 inches tall and spreads up to 2 feet wide. It has long, slender stems that are covered with small, green leaves that are divided into many small leaflets. The flowers of this plant are small and pinkish-purple, and they bloom from May to July. The fruit of the plant is a small, plum-like pod that contains one or two seeds.
Care Guide
The Astragalus Humistratus plant is relatively easy to care for and is drought-tolerant. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the Astragalus Humistratus in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Astragalus Humistratus plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 6a to 10b.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Astragalus Humistratus plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Fungal Diseases: Avoid overwatering the plant to prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or root rot.
Habitat
The Astragalus Humistratus plant grows in various habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and open woodlands. It is found in the western United States, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah, as well as in Mexico.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Astragalus Humistratus plant poisonous?
A: Yes, this plant is toxic to livestock and can cause neurological damage.
Q: Can this plant grow in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can grow in containers as long as it has well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize this plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate the Astragalus Humistratus plant?
A: This plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.
Related Plants
- Astragalus lentiginosus (Spotted Milkvetch)
- Astragalus membranaceus (Milk Vetch)
- Astragalus bisulcatus (Two-grooved Milkvetch)
- Astragalus canadensis (Canadian Milk Vetch)
References
- “Astragalus Humistratus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASHU2
- “Astragalus Humistratus.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ASHU2
- “Ground Plum (Astragalus Humistratus).” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Ground%20Plum.php
