Contents
Description
Astragalus Calycosus, also known as calyx-flowered milkvetch, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America, particularly in the western region of the United States, and is commonly found in dry and rocky areas, grasslands, prairies, and open woodlands. The plant has been used for medicinal purposes by Native American tribes to treat various ailments such as respiratory infections and digestive issues.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
Astragalus Calycosus grows up to 1-2 feet tall and spreads up to 1-2 feet wide. The plant has a bushy and upright growth habit with multiple stems and branches that arise from a central crown. The leaves are pinnately compound, consisting of 15-21 small leaflets that are elliptical to oblong in shape and have a bluish-green color. The flowers are pink to lavender in color and are borne in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit is a pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Astragalus Calycosus is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:Water: Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Plant your Astragalus Calycosus in a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate hot and dry conditions.Hardiness Zones: Astragalus Calycosus is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Calycosus is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Astragalus Calycosus is native to North America and is commonly found in dry and rocky areas, grasslands, prairies, and open woodlands. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in harsh environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Astragalus Calycosus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Astragalus Calycosus can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should I fertilize my Astragalus Calycosus?
A: You should fertilize your Astragalus Calycosus once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What is the best time to plant Astragalus Calycosus?
A: The best time to plant Astragalus Calycosus is in the spring or fall when the temperatures are mild.Q: How do I propagate Astragalus Calycosus?
A: You can propagate Astragalus Calycosus by seed or by division. Seeds should be sown in the fall, and division should be done in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Astragalus Calycosus:- Astragalus Membranaceus- Astragalus Mongholicus- Astragalus Sinicus- Astragalus Propinquus
References
– “Astragalus calycosus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282502&isprofile=1&basic=Astragalus%20calycosus.- “Astragalus calycosus.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed August 27, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ASCA3.
