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Description
Oxytropis Lambertii, also known as Lambert crazyweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The plant is native to North America and can be found in the western United States and Canada, particularly in the Rocky Mountains. It usually grows up to a height of 10 to 40 centimeters and has a purple or pinkish flower. The plant has been used for medicinal purposes by several Native American tribes to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Oxytropis |
Appearance
Oxytropis Lambertii has a bushy growth habit and is covered with fine hairs. The leaves are pinnately compound and have a bluish-green color. The flowers are arranged in clusters and are bell-shaped with a purple or pinkish color. The plant has a taproot that helps it survive in harsh environments.
Care Guide
Oxytropis Lambertii requires moderate watering and should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season. The plant prefers well-draining soils with a slightly acidic pH. It thrives in full sunlight but can tolerate some shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8 and can tolerate extreme temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxytropis Lambertii is susceptible to root rot if the soil is constantly wet. It can also be affected by spider mites, aphids, and leafhoppers. To prevent these pests and diseases, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. Pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Oxytropis Lambertii is native to North America and can be found in the Rocky Mountains, particularly in the states of Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah. It grows in open, rocky areas at high elevations, typically above 7,000 feet. The plant is well-adapted to harsh environments, making it a good choice for xeriscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the medicinal use of Oxytropis Lambertii?
A: The plant has been used for various medicinal purposes, including treating respiratory infections and fever, by several Native American tribes.
Q: Is Oxytropis Lambertii a good choice for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, the plant is well-adapted to harsh environments and can survive in low water conditions, making it ideal for xeriscaping.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Oxytropis Lambertii?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soils with a slightly acidic pH.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Oxytropis Lambertii?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Related Plants
- Oxytropis deflexa
- Oxytropis falcate
- Oxytropis nigrescens
- Oxytropis oreophila
References
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=OXYT2
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=OXYT2
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/oxytropis_lambertii.shtml
