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Description
Astragalus Tener, also known as woolly locoweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the western United States and grows in dry, rocky areas at elevations of 3,000 to 8,000 feet. The plant has a taproot system and grows up to 3 feet tall. It has bluish-green, pinnately compound leaves that are hairy and lanceolate or oblong in shape. The flowers are small, purple or pink, and bloom in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a legume that contains seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Astragalus |
Appearance
Astragalus Tener has a unique appearance with its bluish-green, hairy leaves and small, purple or pink flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a taproot system that allows it to survive in dry, rocky areas. The leaves are pinnately compound and lanceolate or oblong in shape. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and are clustered in small groups. The fruit is a legume that contains seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Astragalus Tener, it is important to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH. It can tolerate drought conditions but needs to be watered regularly during the growing season. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Astragalus Tener needs full sun to partial shade and can grow in hardiness zones 4 through 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astragalus Tener is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, root rot, and powdery mildew. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can be prevented by providing well-draining soil and not overwatering the plant. Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Astragalus Tener is native to the western United States and grows in dry, rocky areas at elevations of 3,000 to 8,000 feet. The plant can be found in meadows, slopes, and open woodlands. It is adapted to survive in harsh environmental conditions and has a taproot system that allows it to access water and nutrients deep in the soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astragalus Tener poisonous?
A: Yes, Astragalus Tener is toxic to livestock and can cause neurological damage if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Astragalus Tener be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Astragalus Tener has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Q: Can Astragalus Tener be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Astragalus Tener can be grown in containers as long as it is given enough space and provided with well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Astragalus Tener be fertilized?
A: Astragalus Tener should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Astragalus Membranaceus
- Astragalus Propinquus
- Astragalus Gummifer
References
- “Astragalus Tener.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed August 27, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ASTE.
- “Woolly locoweed.” Montana Field Guide. Accessed August 27, 2021. https://fieldguide.mt.gov/speciesDetail.aspx?elcode=PDFAB0U0G0.
- “Astragalus Tener.” Wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest. Accessed August 27, 2021. https://www.pnwflowers.com/flower/astragalus-tenuifolius.
