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Description
Astragalus Racemosus, also known as Milkvetch, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in open grasslands, prairies, and dry rocky slopes. The plant has a woody stem that can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
Astragalus Racemosus has pinnately compound leaves that are arranged in an alternate pattern. The leaves are grayish-green in color and can grow up to 6 inches long. The plant produces small, white or pinkish flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are arranged in racemes that can grow up to 8 inches long. The plant produces flattened seed pods that are about 1 inch long.
Care Guide
Astragalus Racemosus requires well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season and fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks. It can be propagated by seeds or by dividing the roots in the fall. Astragalus Racemosus is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Racemosus is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. It can also be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled by using an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Astragalus Racemosus is native to North America and can be found in open grasslands, prairies, and dry rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astragalus Racemosus a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Astragalus Racemosus has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Q: Can Astragalus Racemosus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Astragalus Racemosus can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage.
Q: Does Astragalus Racemosus attract bees?
A: Yes, Astragalus Racemosus is a pollinator-friendly plant and can attract bees and other beneficial insects.
Q: Can Astragalus Racemosus be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, Astragalus Racemosus has a deep root system that can help control erosion.
Related Plants
- Astragalus Membranaceus
- Astragalus Sinicus
- Astragalus Propinquus
- Astragalus Mongholicus
References
- “Astragalus racemosus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 June 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c548.
- “Astragalus racemosus.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 10 June 2021. www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:494921-1.
- Drobnica, L. “Growing and Propagating Showy Milkweed.” University of Minnesota Extension. 2019. www.extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/growing-and-propagating-showy-milkweed.
