Astragalus Filipes

Description

Astragalus Filipes, commonly known as threadstalk milkvetch, is a flowering plant belonging to the legume family. It is native to western North America and is found in various habitats, including grasslands, sagebrush, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. This perennial plant grows up to 60cm tall and has a deep taproot. Its leaves are pinnately compound, with 7-13 leaflets, and its flowers are pale yellow or white and bloom from May to August. Astragalus Filipes is an important forage plant for livestock and wildlife.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Astragalus Filipes is a slender plant with stems that are hairy and green. Its leaves are dark green and have a pinnate shape, with 7-13 oval-shaped leaflets. The flowers are pale yellow or white, with a characteristic keel that protects the reproductive organs. The fruits are long and narrow, with a brownish color and contain small seeds. The plant can grow up to 60cm tall and has a deep taproot that can reach up to 1.8 meters deep.

Care Guide

Astragalus Filipes is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. However, it prefers well-draining soils with a pH of 6.5-7.5. It can be grown from seed or by transplanting seedlings in the spring. The plant requires full sun but can tolerate some shade. Watering should be done sparingly, as the plant can survive long periods of drought. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote growth. Astragalus Filipes is hardy in USDA zone 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Astragalus Filipes is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soils. Other potential diseases include powdery mildew and rust. Pests that can affect the plant include aphids and mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Astragalus Filipes is native to western North America and can be found in various habitats, including grasslands, sagebrush, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. It is an important forage plant for livestock and wildlife, providing food and habitat for various species. The plant is also used in traditional medicine by Native American tribes, who use it to treat various ailments.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Astragalus Filipes a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Astragalus Filipes can tolerate long periods of drought and is adapted to dry environments.Q: Can Astragalus Filipes be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Astragalus Filipes can be grown in containers as long as they are deep enough to accommodate the plant’s taproot.Q: What is the best time to plant Astragalus Filipes?
A: Astragalus Filipes can be planted in the spring or fall, but it is best to plant it in the spring to allow it to establish before the summer heat.Q: Is Astragalus Filipes an invasive species?
A: No, Astragalus Filipes is not considered an invasive species, but it can spread through its seeds if not controlled.

Related Plants

• Astragalus canadensis
• Astragalus lentiginosus
• Astragalus membranaceus
• Astragalus missouriensis

References

• USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Astragalus filipes Torr. & A.Gray. Retrieved August 27, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?id=ASFI
• University of Arizona Cooperative Extension. (n.d.). Astragalus filipes. Retrieved August 27, 2021, from https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/astragalusfilipes.html
• Wildflower Center. (n.d.). Astragalus filipes. Retrieved August 27, 2021, from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASFI