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Description
Astragalus Crotalariae is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in various regions such as the Great Basin, Mojave Desert, and Sonoran Desert. It is commonly known as “rattleweed” due to the sound its seeds make when shaken.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
Astragalus Crotalariae is a perennial plant that can grow up to 2 feet in height. Its leaves are compound, with 7 to 15 leaflets that are oblong in shape. Its flowers are pink to purple in color and bloom in the spring and summer. Its fruits are elongated pods that contain seeds. The seeds have a hard coating and are black in color.
Care Guide
Astragalus Crotalariae is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. The following are some care tips:
- Water: Water sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Astragalus Crotalariae can tolerate USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Crotalariae is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Some common pests that may affect it include spider mites and aphids.
Habitat
Astragalus Crotalariae is native to North America and can be found in various regions such as the Great Basin, Mojave Desert, and Sonoran Desert. It grows in dry, rocky, and sandy soils and can tolerate hot and arid conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astragalus Crotalariae toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: Can Astragalus Crotalariae be grown indoors?
A: It is best grown outdoors as it requires full sun to partial shade.
Q: How often should Astragalus Crotalariae be fertilized?
A: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the blooming season of Astragalus Crotalariae?
A: It blooms in the spring and summer.
Related Plants
- Astragalus lentiginosus
- Astragalus mollissimus
- Astragalus purshii
References
- “Astragalus crotalariae.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASCR.
- “Astragalus crotalariae.” USDA Plants Database, United States Department of Agriculture, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ASCR.
- “Rattleweed.” DesertUSA, www.desertusa.com/flora/rattleweed.html.
