Origin
Astragalus bisulcatus (Hook.) Gray var. major (M.E. Jones) Welsh, also known as the Two-grooved Milkvetch, is a plant species native to North America. It can be found in the Western United States, from Arizona to Montana and west to California.
Common Names
Astragalus bisulcatus var. major is commonly known by several different names, including Two-grooved Milkvetch, Large Two-grooved Milkvetch, and Big Bend Milkvetch.
Uses
In traditional medicine, Astragalus bisulcatus has been used to treat various ailments, such as inflammation, respiratory infections, and gastrointestinal problems. The plant contains flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides, which are believed to have immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties. Some studies suggest that Astragalus may also have anticancer effects, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Astragalus bisulcatus is also commonly used as a forage plant for livestock, as it is known to be highly nutritious and palatable.
General Appearance
Astragalus bisulcatus var. major is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 2 feet tall. It has a deep taproot and a branching stem that is covered in fine hairs. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 8 to 14 leaflets that are oval-shaped and smooth. The flowers are pinkish-purple and bloom from May to August. The fruit is a pubescent, oblong pod that contains several seeds.
The plant prefers dry, rocky soils in open areas, such as sagebrush steppe, desert shrub, and pinyon-juniper woodland habitats.
Growth Conditions for Astragalus bisulcatus var. major
Light: Astragalus bisulcatus var. major prefers full sun and can tolerate partial shade. In areas with high temperatures, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
Temperature: This plant is native to the western United States and is adapted to a range of temperatures. It can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C). However, it grows best in temperatures between 60°F (16°C) and 80°F (27°C).
Soil: Astragalus bisulcatus var. major prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil. It can grow in a range of soil pH levels, but it prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
Moisture: This plant is drought-tolerant but requires some moisture to grow properly. It can survive with minimal water, but regular watering is recommended for optimal growth.
Fertilizer: Astragalus bisulcatus var. major does not require regular fertilization. However, a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring may promote growth and flowering.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated by seed or by division. If propagating by seed, it is best to scarify the seed coat before planting to improve germination rates.
Cultivation
Astragalus bisulcatus (Hook.) Gray var. major (M.E. Jones) Welsh is a hardy perennial plant that grows well in dry and arid regions. It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings.
If propagating from seeds, it is best to stratify the seeds for one to two months before sowing in the spring. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil, and lightly cover them with sand or soil. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
If propagating from stem cuttings, take cuttings from healthy plants in the spring or fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone before planting them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep soil moist until roots form.
Watering Needs
Astragalus bisulcatus (Hook.) Gray var. major (M.E. Jones) Welsh is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply only when the soil is dry to the touch.
When watering, avoid getting water on the leaves as this may encourage the growth of disease-causing fungi.
Fertilization
Astragalus bisulcatus (Hook.) Gray var. major (M.E. Jones) Welsh is adapted to growing in poor and rocky soil with low fertility. As such, it does not require regular fertilization.
If the plant is growing in nutrient-poor soil, applying a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring may help to promote growth.
Pruning
Astragalus bisulcatus (Hook.) Gray var. major (M.E. Jones) Welsh does not require regular pruning. However, if the plant is getting too large or overgrown, it can be lightly pruned in the fall after flowering.
Remove any dead or damaged branches, and trim back any overgrown branches to maintain the plant's shape and size.
Propagation of Astragalus bisulcatus (Hook.) Gray var. major (M.E. Jones) Welsh
Astragalus bisulcatus var. major can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Astragalus bisulcatus var. major can be collected from the plant during the fall season after the pods have ripened and turned brown. The seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until the next spring when they can be sown.
Before sowing the seeds, it is recommended to scarify them to break down their outer layer. This helps to speed up the germination process. One method is to soak the seeds in hot water for a few minutes, followed by placing them in cold water for 24 hours.
The seeds can then be sown in a well-draining soil mix, and kept moist until they germinate. It is preferable to sow the seeds directly into the ground in early spring, but they can also be started indoors in containers.
Cutting Propagation
Astragalus bisulcatus var. major can be propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the early summer. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and should have a few leaves attached.
The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. They should be kept in a humid environment and watered regularly until they develop roots and new growth.
Division Propagation
Astragalus bisulcatus var. major can be propagated through division in the spring. The plant can be dug up and divided into smaller sections, making sure that each section has roots and leaves.
The divided sections can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and watered regularly until they are established.
Disease Management
Astragalus bisulcatus (Hook.) Gray var. major (M.E. Jones) Welsh is susceptible to various diseases and infections that can cause extensive damage. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant:
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing the stem to wilt and eventually die. To prevent this disease, it is important to ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and not overwatered. Careful management of the soil and watering practices can help control this disease.
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It can cause significant damage to the plant, but can be treated with a fungicide. Regularly inspecting the plant and removing any infected leaves can help prevent the spread of this disease.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by a fungal infection and can result in the death of the plant. It often occurs when the plant is overwatered or grown in poorly drained soil. To prevent this from happening, it is important to provide proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant.
Pest Management
The plant Astragalus bisulcatus (Hook.) Gray var. major (M.E. Jones) Welsh is also susceptible to various pests. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can cause significant damage to the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Removing affected leaves and introducing natural predators can also help control aphids.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that spin webs between the leaves of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Removing infected leaves and introducing natural predators can also help control spider mites.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies. They can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves. They can be controlled with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which is a natural insecticide. Handpicking the caterpillars is also effective.
Regularly inspecting the plant and controlling the pests can help prevent significant damage to Astragalus bisulcatus (Hook.) Gray var. major (M.E. Jones) Welsh, ensuring a healthy and thriving plant.
