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Description
Astragalus Exscapus is a perennial herb that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is commonly known as the “milk-vetch” plant. The plant is native to the western portion of North America, specifically the states of Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. It is also found in northern Mexico.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
Astragalus Exscapus grows up to 1.5 feet tall and 1 foot wide. It has a woody stem and small, pinnate leaves that are gray-green in color. The plant produces small, purple flowers that bloom in the late spring and early summer. The fruit of the plant is a small, flat pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Astragalus Exscapus is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is also drought-tolerant and can survive in a range of hardiness zones, from 4 to 10. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Exscapus can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Aphids and spider mites can infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers. Powdery mildew and root rot can also occur if the plant is over-watered or grown in poorly-draining soil. To control pests, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent diseases, ensure the plant is not over-watered and is grown in well-draining soil.
Habitat
Astragalus Exscapus is commonly found in dry, rocky soils in the western United States and northern Mexico. It can be found in a range of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and forests. The plant is well-adapted to drought and can survive in harsh conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Astragalus Exscapus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Astragalus Exscapus can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: Is Astragalus Exscapus edible?
A: While some species of Astragalus are used in traditional medicine and cooking, Astragalus Exscapus is not commonly consumed.
Q: Can Astragalus Exscapus be propagated from seed?
A: Yes, Astragalus Exscapus can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in the fall in a well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
Q: How often should I fertilize Astragalus Exscapus?
A: Fertilize Astragalus Exscapus once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Astragalus lentiginosus
- Astragalus canadensis
- Astragalus bisulcatus
References
- “Astragalus exscapus – (Pursh)Douglas. ex G.Don.” Plants for a Future, https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Astragalus+exscapus.
- “Astragalus exscapus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=asex4.
- “Astragalus exscapus.” USDA Plants Database, https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ASEX4.
