Overview of Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones
Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones is a perennial herbaceous plant that falls under the family Fabaceae. It is a sub-species of the species Astragalus amphioxys which is widely distributed in North America.
Origin and Common Names
Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones is endemic to California where it is found in the northern Central Valley and the north coast ranges. The plant has several common names such as Sheldon's milk-vetch, vespertine prairie clover, and Sheldon's oxytropis.
Uses
Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones has significant value for ecosystem restoration and rangeland rehabilitation in California grasslands. It is also used for soil conservation and as a forage crop for livestock. The plant has several traditional medicinal uses such as treating fever, influenza, and respiratory diseases.
General Appearance
Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones has a stem that grows up to 25 cm long and is sparsely covered with hair. The leaves of the plant are up to 10 cm long and comprise 7 to 9 elliptical leaflets. The flowers are pink or purple in color and grow in clusters of 1 to 4. The pods of the plant are 10 to 20 mm long and are densely covered with hair.
Light Conditions
Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones requires full sunlight exposure for optimum growth and survival. The plant needs approximately 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows in dry and hot conditions, and it is drought-tolerant. It thrives best in areas with warm temperatures ranging from 60°F to 100°F, although it can tolerate lower and higher temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones grows best in well-drained soils that are sandy, gravelly, or rocky. The plant prefers a soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 8.4. It can tolerate low fertility and alkaline soil conditions.
Water Requirements
The plant requires very little water once established. It is drought-tolerant and can survive on rainfall alone. However, during the establishment period, the plant needs regular watering until it develops a strong root system.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant does not require fertilizer as it can grow in low-nutrient soils. However, if grown in poor soils, a balanced fertilizer with low nitrogen content can be added sparingly during the establishment period.
Cultivation Methods:
When it comes to cultivating Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones, it is recommended to start with seeds or young plants, as they have a higher chance of survival. The seeds or plants should be planted in well-draining soil mixed with sand or perlite to ensure good drainage. Additionally, it is important to plant them in a location that receives full sun.
Watering Needs:
Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones requires moderate watering, ensuring that the soil remains evenly moist. It is suggested to water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather. However, be cautious not to overwater, as this plant does not tolerate wet, soggy soil.
Fertilization:
Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones typically does not require much fertilization. However, if the plant shows signs of slow growth, you may add a slow-release or organic fertilizer during the spring season. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers as they may damage the plant.
Pruning:
It is recommended to prune your Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones plant in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Prune any damaged or dead branches and shape the remaining branches to maintain a desirable shape and size. Additionally, removing spent flowers can prolong the blooming period of the plant.
Propagation of Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones
Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones is a perennial herb that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the western United States, where it thrives in dry, rocky areas at elevations between 500-2200 meters. Propagating Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus can be done through both sexual and asexual means.
Sexual Propagation
The most common method of propagating Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus is through seed propagation. Seeds can be collected from the plant when they are mature, which is usually in the late summer or early fall. The seeds can then be planted in well-draining soil in the fall or early spring. It is important to scarify the seeds before planting to improve germination rates. To scarify the seeds, gently rub them with a fine-grit sandpaper or soak them in hot water for 24 hours before planting. The seeds should be planted just below the soil surface and kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
Asexual Propagation
Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus can also be propagated asexually through division. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is just beginning to emerge from dormancy. To divide the plant, gently dig up the entire plant and use a sharp, clean knife to cut the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one stem and a healthy root system. Replant each section in well-draining soil at the same depth it was originally growing and keep the soil moist until new growth emerges.
Overall, Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus is relatively easy to propagate through both sexual and asexual means, which makes it an excellent plant for home gardeners and landscapers to add to their collection.
Disease Management
Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus (Sheldon) M.E. Jones can be susceptible to a few common plant diseases.
Fungal Diseases
One of the most common fungal diseases that affect this plant is the root rot. This disease is caused by different types of soil-borne fungi that attack the roots of the plant, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventual death. To manage this condition, it is essential to ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Fungicidal treatments can also be applied to the soil to control the spread of the disease.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases such as bacterial blight can also affect Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus. This disease often affects the leaves and stems of the plant, leading to wilting, yellowing, and eventually death. To manage this condition, it is recommended to prune off any infected parts using sterilized tools to prevent further spread. Copper-based bactericides can also be sprayed on the plant to control the disease's spread.
Pest Management
Several pests can also affect Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus, leading to damage and even death of the plant.
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow. These pests can also transmit plant viruses that can further weaken the plant. To control aphids, the use of insecticidal soaps or neem oil can be applied to the plant leaves.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that often appear as small dots on the plant's leaves. They feed on the plant's sap, leading to yellowing of leaves and eventually the death of the plant. To manage spider mites, spraying the plant with a fine mist of water or insecticidal soaps can help control their population.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are known to chew on the leaves of Astragalus amphioxys Gray var. vespertinus, leading to severe damage. To manage this pest, manual removal can be done, or the use of Bacillus thuringiensis can be applied to the plant, which is a natural bacteria that only kills caterpillars.
