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Description
Astragalus Purshii, commonly known as Pursh’s milkvetch, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. This plant is native to North America and is found in the western parts of the United States and Canada. It is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 2 feet tall and spreads up to 3 feet wide. The plant has a taproot system, and the stems are usually hairy and erect.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
The leaves of Astragalus Purshii are pinnately compound and have 9-19 leaflets. The leaflets are oblong in shape and are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers of the plant are purple in color and are arranged in racemes, which are elongated clusters of flowers. The fruit of the plant is a legume that is oblong and hairy. The plant blooms from May to August.
Care Guide
Water: Astragalus Purshii requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant season.Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilizer. However, if the soil is poor in nutrients, a general-purpose fertilizer can be applied once a year.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 8.0.Sunlight: Astragalus Purshii prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Purshii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. The plant can also be affected by leaf spot if the foliage stays wet for too long.
Habitat
Astragalus Purshii is commonly found in dry, rocky areas, including open woods, prairies, and meadows. The plant is often found growing in association with sagebrush.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astragalus Purshii a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including respiratory infections and digestive disorders.Q: Can Astragalus Purshii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. However, the container should be large enough to accommodate the taproot system of the plant.Q: Does Astragalus Purshii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant is attractive to bees and butterflies.Q: How often should Astragalus Purshii be pruned?
A: The plant does not require pruning. However, dead or damaged stems can be removed in the spring.
Related Plants
- Astragalus lentiginosus
- Astragalus mollissimus
- Astragalus racemosus
References
- “Astragalus Purshii – Pursh’s Milkvetch.” USDA Plants Database.
- “Astragalus Purshii.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
- “Astragalus Purshii.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
