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Description
Astragalus Kentrophyta, commonly known as spiny milk-vetch, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae. This plant is native to the western United States, where it typically grows in dry, rocky, and sandy soils. Astragalus Kentrophyta is named after its spiny, thorn-like projections that grow on its stem and leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
Astragalus Kentrophyta is a low-growing, bushy plant that can reach up to 2 feet in height. It has a woody stem that is covered in spiny projections, and its leaves are also spiny and oval-shaped. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. The flowers are followed by small, round seed pods that contain the plant’s seeds.
Care Guide
Astragalus Kentrophyta is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your spiny milk-vetch:
- Water: Water your plant sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a year with a low-nitrogen fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant your spiny milk-vetch in well-draining soil that is sandy or rocky.
- Sunlight: Place your plant in an area that receives full sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Astragalus Kentrophyta can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Kentrophyta is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common problems you may encounter:
- Root Rot: This can occur if the plant is overwatered or planted in soil that doesn’t drain well.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the plant and cause it to wilt.
- Aphids: These small insects can feed on the plant’s sap and cause stunted growth.
Habitat
Astragalus Kentrophyta is native to the western United States, where it grows in dry, rocky, and sandy soils. The plant can be found in a variety of habitats, including desert, grassland, and shrubland environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astragalus Kentrophyta a good plant for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, Astragalus Kentrophyta is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping.
Q: How often should I fertilize my spiny milk-vetch?
A: You should fertilize your plant once a year with a low-nitrogen fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Astragalus Kentrophyta?
A: Astragalus Kentrophyta can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9.
Q: Does Astragalus Kentrophyta attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces small, white or pink flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Astragalus bisulcatus
- Astragalus cicer
- Astragalus crassicarpus
- Astragalus lentiginosus
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Astragalus kentrophyta. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ASKEN
- Arizona State University School of Life Sciences. (n.d.). Astragalus kentrophyta. Retrieved from https://www.asu.edu/courses/sbs200s/campus/learn/plants/Astragalus_kentrophyta.htm
