Astragalus Leucolobus

Description

Astragalus Leucolobus is a member of the Fabaceae family, commonly known as the bean or legume family. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to the western United States, where it is commonly found in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant has a woody base and grows up to 2 feet tall. It produces clusters of small, white, and yellow flowers that bloom from May to June.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Astragalus Leucolobus has feather-like leaves that are composed of many small, gray-green leaflets. The stems are thin and covered in fine hairs. The plant produces small, white, and yellow flowers that are clustered together in a spike. The flowers have a distinctive shape, with a curved keel that gives them a boat-like appearance. The plant produces small, oblong-shaped seed pods that contain a single seed.

Care Guide

Astragalus Leucolobus is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. The plant is drought tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. Fertilizer is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring may help the plant grow stronger. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 3 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Astragalus Leucolobus is relatively pest-free. However, it may be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil.

Habitat

Astragalus Leucolobus is native to the western United States, where it is commonly found in arid and semi-arid regions. It grows in a variety of habitats, including sagebrush steppe, pinyon-juniper woodland, and montane meadows. The plant is adapted to dry conditions and is drought tolerant.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Astragalus Leucolobus a medicinal plant?

A: Yes, Astragalus Leucolobus has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections and digestive problems.

Q: Can Astragalus Leucolobus be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Astragalus Leucolobus can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Q: Is Astragalus Leucolobus invasive?

A: No, Astragalus Leucolobus is not considered invasive.

Q: How long does Astragalus Leucolobus live?

A: Astragalus Leucolobus is a perennial plant that can live for several years if well cared for.

Related Plants

• Astragalus bisulcatus
• Astragalus canadensis
• Astragalus cicer
• Astragalus lentiginosus

References

• “Astragalus leucolobus.” USDA Plants Database.
• “Astragalus leucolobus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
• Laird, R. A. (1979). “Observations on the ecology and phenology of Astragalus leucolobus (Fabaceae).” Great Basin Naturalist.
• Welsh, S. L., et al. (2008). “Astragalus.” Flora of North America.