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Description
Astragalus Douglasii, commonly known as Douglas’ milkvetch, is a flowering plant native to western North America. It is a herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide. The plant has a deep taproot and a woody stem with numerous branching stems. The leaves are pinnately compound and have 11-19 leaflets. The flowers are pink-purple and grow in clusters at the tips of the stems. The plant blooms from May to August and produces seeds in pods that are covered in hairs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
Astragalus Douglasii is a beautiful plant that adds color and texture to any garden. The plant has a bushy growth habit and reaches a height of 3 feet. The leaves are green and feathery, while the flowers are pink-purple and grow in clusters at the tips of the stems. The plant produces seed pods that are covered in hairs, giving it a unique texture. Overall, Astragalus Douglasii is an attractive plant that is sure to catch the eye.
Care Guide
Astragalus Douglasii is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
Water
Water your plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot and other problems.
Fertilization
Fertilize your plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in the spring, before the plant starts to grow. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Soil
Astragalus Douglasii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight
Astragalus Douglasii prefers full sun, but can also grow in partial shade. Ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Astragalus Douglasii is hardy in USDA zones 4-9. If you live in a colder climate, ensure that the plant is protected from frost and cold winds.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Douglasii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant can be susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering, as this can cause root rot. If you notice any signs of disease, treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Astragalus Douglasii is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can also grow in partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astragalus Douglasii a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Astragalus Douglasii is a perennial plant.
Q: How tall does Astragalus Douglasii grow?
A: Astragalus Douglasii can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide.
Q: Does Astragalus Douglasii require full sun?
A: Astragalus Douglasii prefers full sun, but can also grow in partial shade.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Astragalus Douglasii?
A: Astragalus Douglasii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant can be susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Related Plants
- Astragalus canadensis
- Astragalus membranaceus
- Astragalus mongholicus
- Astragalus sinicus
References
- “Astragalus douglasii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 October 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c395>
- “Astragalus douglasii.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 14 October 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ASDO2>
- “Douglas’ milkvetch.” Calflora. Accessed 14 October 2021. <https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=772>
