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Description
Astragalus Echinatus, commonly known as Spiny Milk Vetch, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to the western United States and can be found in dry, rocky areas at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 10,000 feet. Astragalus Echinatus can grow up to 20 inches tall and has a spread of up to 24 inches. It has small purple flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, and its spiny leaves grow in a rosette pattern at the base of the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Astragalus |
Appearance
Astragalus Echinatus has a unique appearance with its spiny, green leaves and small purple flowers. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern at the base of the stem and can grow up to 3 inches long. The stem is thin and woody, and the plant can grow up to 20 inches tall with a spread of up to 24 inches. The flowers bloom in the spring and summer and are small, with a length of about 0.5 inches. They are a vibrant purple color with a white center.
Care Guide
Astragalus Echinatus is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure its health and growth. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Astragalus Echinatus prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant deeply once a week, and allow the soil to dry out before watering again.- Fertilization: Fertilize Astragalus Echinatus once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining, sandy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. Mix in some compost or other organic matter to improve the soil’s quality.- Sunlight: Astragalus Echinatus prefers full sun to partial shade. It can withstand some shade but will not thrive in full shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Echinatus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. Some common pests that can affect this plant include aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Astragalus Echinatus is native to the western United States and can be found in dry, rocky areas at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 10,000 feet. It is often found in desert ecosystems and can grow in areas with little water. This plant has adapted to survive in harsh environments and is an important part of the ecosystem in which it grows.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astragalus Echinatus poisonous?
A: No, Astragalus Echinatus is not poisonous. However, it is not recommended to ingest this plant.Q: Can Astragalus Echinatus be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow Astragalus Echinatus indoors, it is not recommended. This plant prefers full sun and can grow quite large, making it difficult to accommodate indoors.Q: How often should I fertilize Astragalus Echinatus?
A: Fertilize this plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Can Astragalus Echinatus tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Astragalus Echinatus is adapted to survive in dry environments and can tolerate drought. However, it will grow best with regular watering.
Related Plants
– Astragalus Membranaceus- Astragalus Mongholicus- Astragalus Propinquus- Astragalus Sinicus
References
– USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Astragalus echinatus. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?id=asec- Native Plant Society of New Mexico. (n.d.). Astragalus echinatus. Retrieved from https://www.npsnm.org/plant/astragalus-echinatus/- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. (n.d.). Astragalus echinatus. Retrieved from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=asec
