Contents
Description
Astragalus Garbancillo, also known as Garbancillo de Tallante, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and Algeria. The plant grows up to 40 cm in height and produces small, yellow flowers that bloom from May to June. The fruit is a legume that contains several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
| Species | Astragalus Garbancillo |
Appearance
Astragalus Garbancillo has a bushy growth habit and produces multiple stems that are covered in small, compound leaves. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a grey-green color. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The fruit is a small legume that contains several seeds. Astragalus Garbancillo is a relatively small plant, usually growing up to 40 cm in height.
Care Guide
Astragalus Garbancillo is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
Water: Water your plant regularly during the growing season, but make sure the soil is well-drained. Avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Astragalus Garbancillo does not require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Use a good quality potting mix that contains perlite or sand to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Astragalus Garbancillo prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Astragalus Garbancillo grows best in hardiness zones 8-11. It can tolerate temperatures down to -5°C (23°F).
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Garbancillo is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect your plant:
Root Rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to the plant’s death. Make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Aphids: Aphids can occasionally infest the plant, causing yellowing leaves and stunted growth. Use an insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
Habitat
Astragalus Garbancillo is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and Algeria. The plant prefers dry, rocky soils and can grow in areas with low rainfall. It is often found in coastal areas and rocky hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astragalus Garbancillo toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Astragalus Garbancillo is toxic to pets.
Q: Can Astragalus Garbancillo be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Astragalus Garbancillo can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Astragalus Garbancillo?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage growth.
Q: Can Astragalus Garbancillo tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Astragalus Garbancillo can tolerate drought once established.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that belong to the same family as Astragalus Garbancillo:
- Astragalus Membranaceus
- Astragalus Mongholicus
- Astragalus Sinicus
- Astragalus Tragacantha
References
- “Astragalus Garbancillo.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science.
- “Astragalus Garbancillo.” Flora of Morocco.
- “Astragalus Garbancillo.” Encyclopedia of Life.
