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Description
Astragalus Pelecinus, also known as Pelecinus Milk Vetch, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the western United States, specifically in California, Nevada, and Oregon. This plant can grow up to 30 inches tall and has a spread of 18-24 inches. It has small, green leaves and produces white, pink, or purple flowers that bloom in the spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
Astragalus Pelecinus has a unique appearance with small, green leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The stem is hairy and slender, and the plant produces flowers in shades of white, pink, or purple that bloom in the spring to early summer. The flowers are pea-shaped and are arranged in clusters at the tip of the stem. The plant has a taproot system that allows it to survive in dry and arid environments.
Care Guide
To keep your Astragalus Pelecinus healthy and thriving, follow these care tips:
- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun exposure.
- Hardiness Zones: Astragalus Pelecinus can grow in hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Pelecinus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-draining soil. Common pests that may affect this plant include aphids and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Habitat
Astragalus Pelecinus is native to the western United States and can be found in dry, arid environments such as deserts, rocky slopes, and grasslands. It can grow in elevations up to 8,000 feet and is commonly found in California, Nevada, and Oregon.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Astragalus Pelecinus be grown indoors?
A: No, this plant requires full sun exposure and is not suitable for indoor growing.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Astragalus Pelecinus?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Astragalus Pelecinus drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, this plant is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Astragalus Pelecinus?
A: This plant can grow in hardiness zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Astragalus Minerensis
- Astragalus Purshii
- Astragalus Lentiginosus
- Astragalus Lentiginosus var. Pilosus
References
- “Astragalus pelecinus.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed on June 1, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ASPE2
- “Astragalus pelecinus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin. Accessed on June 1, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASPE2
- “Astragalus pelecinus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on June 1, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d424
