Contents
Description
Hedysarum Boreale, commonly known as the Northern Sweetvetch, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America, and it is commonly found in Alaska, Canada and some northern parts of the United States. The plant is known for its sweet scent, which attracts a variety of pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Hedysarum |
Appearance
The Northern Sweetvetch plant can grow up to 1-2 feet in height and 2-3 feet in width. It has a deep-rooted taproot that can reach up to 6 feet in length. The plant has a bushy habit and produces multiple stems from the base. The leaves are alternate, pinnately compound, and have 9-13 leaflets. The flowers are pink to purple in color and are arranged in spikes that can be up to 8 inches long. The plant blooms from June to August. The fruit is a legume that is 1-2 inches long and contains 1-2 seeds.
Care Guide
The Northern Sweetvetch plant is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but you can add compost or a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Northern Sweetvetch plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Additionally, aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest the plant.
Habitat
The Northern Sweetvetch plant is native to North America and is commonly found in Alaska, Canada and some northern parts of the United States. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, open woodlands, and along streams and rivers. The plant is an important food source for a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and rabbits.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Northern Sweetvetch plant poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous.
Q: Can the Northern Sweetvetch plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it requires a large container due to its deep taproot.
Q: Can the Northern Sweetvetch plant be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections and digestive issues.
Q: Is the Northern Sweetvetch plant endangered?
A: No, the plant is not currently considered endangered.
Related Plants
- Hedysarum alpinum
- Hedysarum mackenzii
- Hedysarum occidentale
- Hedysarum boreale var. boreale
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Hedysarum boreale Nutt. Retrieved September 30, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=HEBO2
- University of Alaska Fairbanks. (n.d.). Hedysarum boreale. Retrieved September 30, 2021, from https://www.uaf.edu/ces/garden/resources/plant-list/hedysarum-boreale.php
- Alaska Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Hedysarum boreale. Retrieved September 30, 2021, from https://www.aknps.org/index.php/our-plants/25-hedysarum-boreale
