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Description
Astragalus Oxyphysus, commonly known as the Pointed Tip Milkvetch, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to western North America, where it grows in dry, rocky areas at elevations ranging from 1000 to 3000 meters. The plant can grow up to 40 centimeters in height and has a unique appearance, with narrow leaflets and dense inflorescences of pink and purple flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
The Pointed Tip Milkvetch has a unique appearance, with narrow leaflets that are about 2 to 4 centimeters long and 1 to 2 millimeters wide. The inflorescences are dense and consist of pink and purple flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are about 1.5 centimeters long and have a distinct shape, with a keel that is longer than the standard and wings. The plant can grow up to 40 centimeters in height and has a sprawling growth habit.
Care Guide
The Pointed Tip Milkvetch requires special care to thrive. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and needs to be watered regularly during the growing season.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pointed Tip Milkvetch is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The plant can also attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Pointed Tip Milkvetch is native to western North America, where it grows in dry, rocky areas at elevations ranging from 1000 to 3000 meters. The plant is commonly found in the Great Basin and Colorado Plateau regions.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the growing habit of the Pointed Tip Milkvetch?
A: The Pointed Tip Milkvetch has a sprawling growth habit.
Q: What is the flowering season of the Pointed Tip Milkvetch?
A: The plant blooms in late spring to early summer.
Q: What is the pH range preferred by the Pointed Tip Milkvetch?
A: The plant prefers a pH range between 6.0 and 8.0.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for the Pointed Tip Milkvetch?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Related Plants
- Astragalus lentiginosus
- Astragalus membranaceus
- Astragalus missouriensis
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASOX
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ASOX
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/astrox/all.html
